' m 



(§lh MtvtnBbnr^ 




.lAMES BUCHAXAX 
From Portrait Painted For Mrs. Lane in 1S31 



BY 

THE WOMAN'S CLUB OF MERCERSBURG 
PENNSYLVANIA 




Published Under the Auspices of 



©ll? Snurnal of Am^rtran litatorxj 

Number Three West Forty-Second Street, New York, in the Year 1912 






COPYRIGHT, 1912, BY THE JOURNAL OF AMERICAN HISTORY 



f: 



gCI.A3iniG0 




MEMORY 



Beautiful Symbolism of the years that 

have gone and linger only in the 

memories of those who pass 

through them 



By Hans Schuler, of Baltimore, Md. 



Jprrfar^ 



AV% UMM AGING a garret is rare sport to him who by incHnation or training is a real rummager. 
4JIZ The garret must have three qualifications, age, haircloth trunks and intimate, aflfectionate 
K^J^ associations. There quaint and curious treasures linger. The spinning wheel has been var- 
nished or perchance painted, and promoted to the parlor. Spinning wheels no longer thrill 
the finder. Why they can be bought and sold ! 

But the old sturdy armchair with the chip bottom fixed with flowered muslin, in which 
grandfather sat so many patient years ; the quaint engraving with its black, depressing frame 
long since banished as hopelessly out of style ; the wax flowers which Great-aunt Salley made be- 
fore her girlish fingers grew too tired for even that light work — these are the things which have 
the garret flavor. Presently that self-same haircloth trunk is opened and old letters, bills of sale, 
random invitations, bring back a flood of memories. Here great-grandmother is addressed from 
far-oflF Baltimore, and the folded, sewed note was delivered by carrier's wagon. There is the 
stiff, archaic-worded deed to the wood lot, subdivided and built upon these fifty years. In the 
corner by the wasp-encrusted chimney hangs Uncle William's army canteen. The side with the 
dull brown stain is turned next to the wall. Grandmother hung it so. 

Now towns are like garrets. Of course it is pleasant to be new, to have the houses well set 
back and streets straight, or maybe streets with curves mathematically calculated. But such 
a town has no real garret. It smells of fresh shingles and the lime in the mortar. Towns must 
have age, haircloth trunks and intimate, affectionate associations. All three does old Mercers- 
burg possess. And so to the true, sincere, fussless Rummager this little book is dedicated. May 
he or she have as much pleasure reading it as the compilers have had in putting it together. 

Our book, frankly, has nothing to do with the Mercersburg of today, except as the present 
throws light on its past. The story stops with the Civil war. 

The Woman's Club of Mercersburg, in search of some pleasant activity, decided to gather 
together the many scattered bits of history, biography and tradition which were fast being lost 
sight of, and to put them into more nearly permanent form. 

Thanks are due to so many individuals and organizations for help that any list is bound to 
be somewhat incomplete. However, we desire to acknowledge in this public way the assistance 
which we have received from the following: David McDonald, Daniel Hart, Dr. Theodore Ap- 
pel's "College Recollections," Dr. Dubbs' "History of Franklin and Marshall College," the vari- 
ous State and county histories, "Border Life," the "Bard Family History," W. D. McKinstrj''s "Re- 
miniscences," The Journal of American History, and the Rodgers Engraving Company. 

Committee. 

Nancy Belle Rupley, President 
Virginia Shannon Fendrick, Chairman 
Mary Patterson Dickey, Treasurer 
Rebecca North Waidlich 
Mercersburg, Pa., September, 191 1. Sophia Slavmaker Unger 






Dr. David Schley Schaflf 

Mr. Geo. B. Waddell 

Mrs. L. M. Higbee 

Mrs. L. H. Gait 

Mr. Oliver E. Shannon 

Mrs. J. C. Rankin 

Mrs. Virginia Brewer Byron 

Mr. T. Frank McFarland 

Hon. Thos. R. Bard 

Mr. Richard H. Simpson 

Mr. William Findlay Brown 

Mr. W. Lindsay Ritchey 

Mrs. Mary Hause Fouse 

Mrs. Jennie McNaughton Rearick 

Mr. Houston Johnston 

Presbyterian Mite Society 

Mr. Edward Z. Weber 

Mrs. Jennie Cromer Shirk 

Mr. William N. Appel 

Mr. James Findlay 

Miss H. C. McClelland 

Mr. D. F. Crilley 

Miss Mary McKinstry 



Miss Alice Nevin 

Miss Elizabeth F. Torrence 

Mr. Robert M. Coyle 

Mr. William D. Boyd 

Mr. Richard B. Ritchey 

Mr. Seth Dickey 

Mrs. Minnie Fendrick Bester 

Mrs. Jane Huston Dixon 

Mrs. Mary McNaughton Agnew 

Miss K. Antoinette Shannon 

Miss Nancy Belle Rupley 

Misses Anna and Ellen Patterson 

Mr. Thos. Erskine Carson 

Mr. Edward H. Philips 

Mr. William F. McDowell 

Mr. Wilson L. Harbaugh 

Mr. Andrew R. Schnebly 

Mr. S. McClean Rhea 

Mr. A. B. Lauderbaugh 

Mr. John Orth 

Mrs. Janet Hause Ragg 

Mrs. Jane Maclay Tittle 



Preface 5 

Some Old Friends Who Have Made this History Possible 7 

Settlement 19 

Indian Troubles 22 

Foundation of the New Town 26 

In the Revolution and War of 1812 31 

Development 34 

Black's Town, and Squire Smith's Town, 1730-1786 35 

Mercersburg, 1786 37 

Schools 48 

Trails and Roads 51 

Colonel James Smith 52 

Captivity of John McCullough 55 

Robert McQellen, Scout 58 

General Hugh Mercer 60 

The Findlay Family 63 

Captain Robert Parker 66 

Dr. William Magaw 66 

Dr. Jesse Magaw 67 

Honorable William McKinstry 67 



(EabU of (HanUntB 

Judge Bard 67 

Judge Smith 67 

Dr. D. Hayes Agnew 67 

Honorable Thomas Carson 68 

Judge Carson 68 

John McDowell, LL. D 69 

James Buchanan 72 

Edward Young Buchanan 79 

Harriet Rebecca Lane 81 

Jane Irwin Harrison and Elizabeth Irwin Harrison 84 

Thomas Creig, D. D 85 

Extracts From Thomas Creig's Memorial Discourse 87 

Frederick Augustus Rauch, D. D 89 

John Williamson Nevin, D. D., LL. D 90 

Traill Green. M. D., LL. D 94 

Thomas Conrad Porter, D. D., LL. D 94 

Philip Schaff, D. D., LL. D 95 

William M. Nevin, LL. D 99 

Emanuel Vogel Gerhart, A. M., D. D., LL. D 102 

Honorable Thomas Bard McFarland 105 

Henry Harbaugh, D. D 108 

Thomas Gilmore Appel, D. D 1 1 1 

Elnathan Elisha Higbee, D. D., LL. D 115 

The Presbyterian Church 118 



QIablp of (Eontpnta 

Communing Members of Upper West Conococheague Church 122 

The United Presbyterian Church 125 

St. John's Lutheran Church 128 

Historical Sketch of Trinity Reformed Church 131 

History of the Methodist Episcopal Church 138 

Mercersburg Park 140 

The Mercersburg Lyceum 140 

The Champion Cradling Feat of the World 142 

Mercersburg in War Times 145 

The Gettysburg Week 163 

Mercersburg and Libby Prison 170 

Some Reminiscences, by J. Thompson Parker 172 

Company C, 126th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry 173 

The Battle of Fredericksburg 178 

Major General Hooker's Report 181 

Colonel John Lindsay Ritchey 183 

Side Lights on Three Historic Events 187 

Early Recollections of A Mercersburg Girl 189 

Tiie Hancock Letters 190 

Soldiers in the Civil War from Mercersburg and Vicinity 191 

Arnold Brooks 193 

Extracts from the Ledger of Samuel Findlay 196 

Appraisement of the Goods and Chattels of Catherine Phillips 199 

Oath of Allegiance of Eaven Phillips 200 



(Eabb of (HontrntB 

Advertisement of Dr. James P. Scott 200 

Advertisement of Dr. E. G. McGovern 200 

Bill to Archibald Bard 200 

Negro Accounts of 1815 201 

Advertisement for Runaway Slaves in 1843 201 

The Woman's Club of Mercersburg 202 

Business Director)' of Mercersburg, 191 1 203 



JfUufitrattnna 



Mercer Coat-of-Arms in colors Front Cover 

Portrait of James Buchanan Frontispiece 

Memory 5 

Bridge Near McDowell's Mill. One of the many beautiful stone bridges 

which span Conococheague Creek 19 

West Conococheague Settlement 19 

The Indian. Bas-relief on Parkman Monument — by Daniel Chester French 

of New York 22 

The First Americans. Civilization Driving the Aborigine Westward 24 

Survey of the tract that William Smith purchased of James Black and devised 

to his sons 28 

Minute-Man of the American Revolution 32 

Main Street in Old Mercersburg 37 

Mary Chambers, wife of Joseph Van Lear 38 

Colonel John Murphey, Proprietor of the Mansion House, 1845-1864 40 

The Old Mansion House. From a time worn Picture 40 

The House of Middling Size built about 1786 for the Widow of William Smith 42 
A Glimpse of the beautiful woodwork in the house built by Colonel Robert 

Parker about 1788. The Balcony House. An Old Doorway. Fairview 

Cemetery. The Toil-Gate at North End of Town 46 

Home of the great American Jurist, John Marshall of Virginia, for whom 



JIUuBtrattxinB 

Marshall College was named 48 

Diagnothian Hall 50 ^ 

Casey's Knob and Two-Top 56 

The Old Flint-Lock Gun dropped by one of the Indians who captured John 

McCullough. One of the Leather fire-buckets of long ago 56 

Portrait of General Hugh Mercer 59 

Sword of General Hugh Mercer 60 

Monument to General Hugh Mercer 60 

House built by Samuel Findlay 63 ' 

Portrait of William Findlay 65 ^ 

Silhouette of Colonel John Findlay 65 

Silhouette of John Findlay, Junior 65 

Portrait of Robert Smith 67 

Portrait of William McKinstry 67 

Portrait of John McDowell, LL. D 69 

McDowell Plot in Waddell's Graveyard 7^ ^ 

A scene near the early home of James Buchanan 72 ^ 

The Old Spring at Buchanan's birthplace 72 

The birthplace of Buchanan 72 

Portrait of James Buchanan 71^ 

Monument at Stony Batter marking the birthplace of James Buchanan 75 

Looking north from Riffle Pit 7^ 

In Waddell's Graveyard 75 

Silhouette of Bishop White 70 



3IUuBtratixinB 

Portrait of Edward Young Buchanan 79 

Two portraits of Harriet Lane Johnston 80 

Design from a window cornice in the Lane Home, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania 82 

The birthplace of Harriet Lane 82 

The arched hall-way in the home of Harriet Lane 82 

Irwinton Mills, the birthplace of Elizabeth and Jane Irwin 84 

Portrait of Jane Irwin Harrison, mistress of the White House, 1841 84 

Portrait of Elizabeth Irwin Harrison, mother of President Benjamin Harrison 84 

Portrait of Thomas Creigh, D. D 86 

Portrait of Frederick Augustus Rauch, D. D 89 

John Williamson Nevin, D. D., LL. D 90 

Portrait of Traill Green, M. D., LL. D 94 

Portrait of Thomas Conrad Porter, D. D., LL. D 94 

Philip Schaff, D. D., LL. D 96 

Theological Seminary of German Reformed Church, Mercersburg, Penn- 
sylvania, 1836 96 

Portrait of William M. Nevin, LL. D 99 

Portrait of Emanuel Vogel Gerhart, D. D 102 

Portrait of the Honorable Thomas Bard McFarland 105 

Portrait of Henry Harbaugh, D. D 108 

Portrait of Thomas Gilmore Appel, D. D 1 1 1 

Two-Top Mountain 112 

Mount Parnell 112 

Portrait of Elnathan Elisha Higbee, D. D., LL. D 1 1 c 



3Uuatratunig 

Presbyterian Church, front view 1 18 

Presbyterian Cliurch, side view Ii8 

The chair in which the Reverend Doctor King sat to preach from 1807 to 

181 1, he being afflicted with rheumatism 120 

Communion Service used in Presbyterian Church of Upper West Conoco- 

cheague as early as 1775 120 

The Church Hill Graveyard 122 

The United Presbyterian Church 125 

St. John's Lutheran Church 128 

Church of the Reformed and Lutheran Congregations of Mercersburg, Penn- 
sylvania 130 

First Altar and Communion Cup used jointly by the Reformed and Lutheran 

Congregations of Mercersburg 130 

Trinity Reformed Church, Mercersburg, Pennsylvania 132 

Chippendale Chairs in possession of Trinity Reformed Church, Mercersburg, 

Pennsylvania 134 

The Methodist Episcopal Church 138 

American Valor 145 

Monument to Soldiers and Sailors of the Union 155 

Fac-simile of note issued by the Borough of Mercersburg, 1862 171 

Portrait of Major Robert Smith Brownson, M. D 175 

Portrait of Captain James Paull McCullough 175 

Portrait of John L. Ritchey 183 

Portrait of Arnold Brooks 153 

Fac-simile of bill from the ledger of Samuel Findlay igS 



mh Mixtnabm^ 




BRIDGE NEAR MCDOWELL'S MILL 
One of the many bpautiful Stone Bridges •niiich span Conococheague Creek 



WEST COXOCOCHEAGUE SETTLEMENT 

1 Irwinton Mills. The birthplace of Jane and Elizabetli Irwin 

2 Fort Maxwell 

3 Doctor Hugh Mercer lived and practiced medicine near this 

spot 

4 Stony Baiter, the birthplace of President Buchanan 

5 Entrance to Path Valley 

6 Fort Davis 

7 Waddell's graveyard 



I 



FbRjLoUDON 



ST THO 

i5;> StJhoma: 







AJa<nAj anl 



g^rttbm^nt 



^^■T'HE early history of Mercersburg is the history of the West Conococheague Settlement of 
/■j Cumberland county, now Franklin. This settlement comprised all the country drained by 

AIL the west branch of the Conococheague Creek, hence its name. It embraced a territory of 
^^^ fourteen miles in length, extending from Mt. Pamell to the Maryland boundary and 
including St. Thomas, Fort Loudon, Mercersburg, Upton and Welsh Run. 

The pioneer settler of this town was James Black, who, tradition says, purchased the land 
on which Mercersburg stands, from the Indians for a gun and a string of beads. Thus Black se- 
cured the good will of the Indians, without which the Proprietors were never willing that settle- 
ments should be made. "Be tender of offending the Indians and let them know you have come to 
sit down lovingly among them," were Penn's instructions to his commissioners. 

This James Black has appeared as a half mythical person for whom tradition built a mill as 
early as 1730 on the stream at the northern end of the town. A diligent search after facts has 
given more definite knowledge of James Black. He was the son of John and Jane Black, who 
apparently were the earliest settlers in this region and possessed themselves of a large tract of 
land lying west of Mercersburg. A deed to part of this, now in possession of Mr. Louderbach, 
recites "a certain John Black did obtain a patent for 341 acres of land situated on a branch of West 
Conococheague in the said township of Peters and whereas the said John Black and Jane his wife 
by their deed of gift, dated the 13th day of May. 1746, did convey unto their son, James Black 
a certain part or parcel of the aforesaid tract of land, hereinafter described and whereas the said 
James Black, by his last will and testament dated at North Carolina 30th day of October, 1776, 
did give and bequeath unto his nephew, the Re\-. John Black, his heirs and assigns forever, all 
that part or parcel of land given by his father John Black above mentioned, and whereas the 
above mentioned Rev. John Black did convey the said land to John Johnston, by his conveyance 
April 30, 1790." etc. 

James Black, in his own name, was granted a warrant in 175 1 for the tract on which Mer- 
cersburg stands. The following is a certified copy of the original on file in the Department of 
Internal Affairs of Pennsylvania : 

Pennsvlvani.\, SS : 

BY THE PROPRIETARIES 

WHEREAS, James Black of the County of Cumberland, hath requested that we should 
grant him to take up Two Hundred Acres of Land including his improvement adjoining a Tract 
of 100 acres sold to Richard Peters by the said James Black & Peter Corbet in Peters Township 
in the said Count)' of Cumberland for which he agrees to pay to our Use Fifteen Pounds Ten 
Shillings, current Money of this Province, for Each Hundred Acres with lawful interest for the 
same and the Yearly Quit-Rent of One Half-penny Sterling for every Acre thereof. Both to 
commence from the first of March, 1738. 

These are, therefore, to authorize and require you to survey or cause to be survey'd unto the 
said James Black at the Place aforesaid, according to the Method of Townships appointed, the 
said Quantity of Two Hundred Acres, if not already survey'd or appropriated, and make Return 
thereof into the Secretary's Office, in Order for further Confirmation, for which this shall be 
your sufficient Warrant ; which survey in Case the said James Black fulfil the above Agreement, 
within six Months from the Date hereof, shall be valid, otherwise void. 

GIVEN under my Hand and Seal of the Land Office, by Virtue of certain Powers from the 
said Proprietaries, at Philadelphia, this seventeenth day of August Anno Domini One Thousand 
Seven Hundred and Fifty One. James Hamilton 

To Nicholas Scull, Surveyor General. 

19 



20 mh MntttBbnr^ 

IN TESTIMONY, That the above is a copy of the original remaining on file in the Depart- 
ment of Internal Affairs of Pennsylvania, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of 
said Department to be affixed at Harrisburg, this twentieth day of Alarch, A. D. 191 1. 

(Seal) Henry Houck, Secretary of Internal Affairs 

This warrant calls for interest and quit-rents from 1738, but Black may have occupied the 
land even before this, for under the peculiar land conditions at that time, settlers occupied cer- 
tain tracts of land by virtue of a sort of "squatter sovereignty," each one choosing a site according 
to his taste and living on it for years before receiving proper legal authority for the same. 

The mill Black built was a small log structure, long since disappeared. To this mill the 
settlers for miles around, afoot and horseback, brought their grist to be ground, waiting to take 
the flour home with them. Thus it became a waiting place and center for the frontiersman ; a 
store was added; gradually a few houses sprang up and the settlement became known as 
Black's Town. 

A part of Black's tract with mill, store, etc., was purchased by William Smith on the 22d 
day of October, 1759, and Black's Town became Smith's Town, or Squire Smith's Town, as it 
was frequently called. It is of interest to note the names of other settlers around here, some of 
these we get from the Shannon Patent, still in the possession of that family. It reads as follows : 

"Thomas Penn and John Penn, esq., true and absolute proprietaries and governors-in-chiel 
of the province of Pennsylvania and the counties of Newcastle, Kent and Sussex upon Delaware. 
To all unto whom these Present shall come Greetings : Whereas in pursuance of a Warrant 
dated the 27th day of November, 1751, granted to Peter Corbett, there was surveyed for William 
Shannon (to whom said Corbett conveyed by deed, dated the 9th day of March, 1758) a certain 
tract of land called Shannon's Industry situate in Peters town-ship, Cumberland county. Begin- 
ning at a marked hickory, thence by Thomas Baird's land — thence by vacant land — thence by 
James Black's land — thence by Joseph Huston's and Joseph Bradner's lands," etc. Other set- 
tlers were John Wray, who bought a tract that James Black had transferred to Richard Peters, 
Matthew Wilson, Benjamin Kirkpatrick, James Rankin, William McDowell, James and Robert 
]\IcClellan, Robert Culbertson, James Gardner, and James Wilkins. 

William Smith, the Proprietor of Smith's Town, was the son of James and Janet Smith. He 
married his cousin Mary, a sister of Col. James Smith, of "Black Boy" fame. In 1755 William 
.Smith was appointed one of the commissioners to build the military road which General Braddock 
had demanded of the Provincial Government. This road was to extend from McDowell's mill to 
the Three Forks of the Youghiogheny. Under the personal supervision of the Commissioners the 
bridle path was converted into a wagon road for the passage of troops and transportation of mili- 
tary supplies, but the work was done under constant danger from the Indians. When William 
Smith went out with his three hundred road cutters, one of them was his brother-in-law, James 
Smith, whose own account of his capture by the Indians is given in this sketch. Both \\'illiam 
and James Smith were typical pioneers and played an active part in the early history of this 
part of the Province. When Black's property passed into the hands of Smith (1759), he was the 
most active and prominent man on the frontier. This post, so near the gap through which the 
Indian trail led from the valley into the mountain, soon had an extensive trade with the western 
frontier and grew in importance. It was not an uncommon sight to see from fifty to one hun- 
dred pack horses in a line laden with salt, iron, and merchandise of all kinds, destined for the set- 
tlers or the Indians beyond the mountains. Later, when wagons came into use in the valley, 
freight was here transferred to pack horses to cross the mountains. 

To protect the frontier, it was found necessary to control the trade with the Indians by a 
military-like inspection, and William Smith was one of these inspectors by virtue of his office as 
Colonial Justice. The following are copies of his passes from Vol. IV, Penn. Archives, First 
Series, p. 220. 

"Cumberland County: 

"By William Smith, Esq., one of his Majesty's Justices of the Peace. Permit the Bearer, 
Thomas McCammis. to pass Fort Bedford with nine Kegs of Rum, eight Kegs of A\"ine, one 
Keg of Spirits, one Keg of Molasses, three Kegs of Brown Sugar, four Kegs packed with Loaf 



Sugar and Coffee and Chocolate, in all twenty-six Kegs and one Bag of Shoes provided always 
that this permit shall not Extend to Carrying any Warlike Stores or any article not herein men- 
tioned. 

"Given under my Hand & Seal, 15th May 1765. Wm. Smith." 

Captain James Smith, leader of the "Black Boys," gave this additional authority: "As the 
Sideling Hill Volunteers have already inspected these goods and as they are all private prop- 
erty, it is Expected that none of these brave fellows will molest them upon the Road, as there is 
no Indian Supplies among them. 

"Given under my hand May 15th 1765. James Smith." 

Another one reads : 

"Cumberland County, 

"Permit the Bearers, 
Alex'r McKinney and Lachlan McKinnon to pass unmolested to and from Antietam, they be- 
having themselves Soberly and inoffensively as becomes loyal Subjects, they being Soldiers Carry- 
ing a Letter to Daniel McCoy and as they say, is going to purchase two Cows. 

"Given under my hand this 20th May 1765 William Smith." 

The smuggling of Indian supplies about this time, by certain traders from Philadelphia, led 
to a conflict between the civil and military authorities, which involved the magistrates of the 
township, the Governor of the Province and the Commander-in-chief of the British forces in 
America. By this William Smith lost his position as a magistrate of Cumberland county. An 
account of this is given under "Colonel James Smith." 




Jnimn ®r0ubb0 



^^■^HE settlers of the West Conococheague, as early as 1748, found it necessary to organize 
/ -4 themselves for the defense of life and property. The Indians had long forgotten that "'the 

AIL Indians and English ninst live in love as long as the sun gave light," and the Provincial 
^^^ Government was obliged to frequently renew the treaties when the "Chain of Friendship" 
would be polished by presents of English goods. This "brightening the chain" proved so 
profitable to the Indians and they became so skillful in drawing out "well piled up" presents that the 
system became a burden to the white men. 

The Quaker Government had been slow to use anything like a display of force with the Red 
Men, and settlers had been obliged to protect themselves ; this they had done by organizing a 
militia and building private stockades and block houses. In 1748 w'e find Major William Max- 
well and Lieutenant William Smith and John Winton, of Peters township, guarding the west side. 
The names James and Joshua Patterson, Irvins, William Rankin, Matthew Shields, senior and 
junior, and Daniel Shields, who all belonged to the militia or rangers, sound like West Conococh- 
eague names. 

In 1753 war broke out in earnest between the English and French. The latter were always 
skilfid in gaining the Indians as allies, and this meant war for the English settlers. The an- 
nals of the Conococheague Settlement for the following twelve years cover a series of Indian in- 
cursions, captures and massacres. 

The defeat of Braddock in 1755 left the whole frontier uncovered and the greatest consterna- 
tion prevailed among the unprotected inhabitants of the Cumberland Valley and especially of the 
Conococheague Settlement. A reign of terror ensued and large numbers of the settlers fled to 
safer parts of the Province. Some neighborhoods were entirely deserted, and particularly of 
the West Conococheague Settlement was this true. The church, which the early pioneers had 
established in 1738, was for a time disbanded. Everywhere men flew to arms, and companies 
were organized. Hugh Mercer w^as made captain of one of these, while the Rev. John Steele 
was captain of another. 

The danger was so imminent that the Colonial Government sought to establish a chain of 
forts extending from Path Vallej^ to the iMaryland boundary. At this time the W^est Conoc- 
ocheague had several forts which served as rallying points for protection and defense, and as 
places of refuge for the women and children when the men were absent from home. W^hen the 
first settlers organized their church, in 1738, Churchill was chosen as the most central point in 
the territory it embraced. Early in its history this church became a place of protection. Built of 
logs, it was enclosed by a stockade of logs, which were seventeen feet long, pointed at the end 
and set in a ditch four or five feet deep. The stockade was provided with loopholes and on the 
inside was a platform, raised a few feet from the ground, on which the defenders stood. This 
was known as Steele's Meeting house and Steele's Fort from the pastor's name. Rev. John 
Steele became the pastor in the troublous times of 1754. In those perilous days both shepherd 
and flock alike carried their arms with them to this place of worship. Rev. Steele more than 
once led forth his people in pursuit of the Indians ; indeed one of the first companies organ- 
ized on the bloody outbreak of the Delaware Indians in 1755 selected him for its captain. He 
w^as called the Reverend Captain. In a government account the following is found : "Nov. 25, 
1755. The Rev. John Steele at Conocochig: 2 quarter casks of powder; 2 cwt. of lead." 

The alarming situation of the settlement is described in a call from Falling Spring, Sab- 
bath morning, Nov. 2, 1755. "Gentlemen. — If you intend to go to the assistance of your neigh- 
bors, yon need wait no longer for the certainty of the news. The Great Cove is destroyed, James 
Campbell left his company last night and went to the fort at Mr. Steele's meeting house and 
there saw some of the inhabitants of the Great Cove who gave this account : I understand that 
the West Settlement is designed to go if they can get any assistance to repel them." (Rupp's 
History, p. 90.) 

22 




THE INDIAN 

Bas-relief on Parkman Monument. By Daniel 
Chester French, of New York 



Nov. 3, 1755, Adam Hoops, Commissary General, writes to Hon. R. H. Morris, Governor of 
Province : "Sir : I am sorry I have to trouble you with this melancholy and disagreeable news 
for on Saturday an express came from Peters township that the inhabitants of the Great Cove 
were all murdered or taken captive and their houses and barns all in flames. — Upon information 
as aforesaid, John Potter and myself sent expresses through our neighborhood which induced 
many of them to meet with us at John McDowell's Mill, where I with many others, had the 
unhappy prospect to see the smoke of two houses, which had been set on fire by the Indians, 
viz : Matthew Patton's, Meseck James' houses, where their cattle were shot down, and horses 
standing bleeding with Indian arrows in them ; but the Indians had fled. The Rev. Mr. Steele, 
Esq., and several others with us to the number of about one hundred went in quest of the In- 
dians with all the expedition imaginable, but without success, these have likewise taken two 
women captives, belonging to said township." (Rupp, p. 93.) 

Three days later Adam Hoops writes : 

"Hance Hamilton, Esq., is now at John McDowell's Mill with upward of two hundred men 
(from York county) and two hundred from this county, in all about four hundred. To morrow 
we intend to go to the Cove and Path Valley, in order to bring what cattle and horses the In- 
dians let live. We are informed by a Delaware Indian, who lives amongst us, that on the same 
day the murder was committed, he saw four hundred Indians in the Cove and we have reason 
to believe they are there yet." (Rupp, p. 94.) 

JHriouifira Mill mh Jort 

When this mill, which occupied such a conspicuous place in frontier history, was built, can 
now be ascertained only approximately. It stood on the east side of the Conococheague, where 
the village of Bridgeport now stands. Early descriptions show it to have been a wide log struc- 
ture near by a dwelling house, also of logs, and plentifully supplied with port-holes. The first 
mention of it in the Colonial Annals was by Colonel John Armstrong in "A plan for the Defence 
of the Frontier of Cumberland county from Phillip Davies to Shippensburg. 

"Let one company cover from Phillip Davies to Thomas Waddel's. And as John McDow- 
ell's Mill is at the most important pass, most exposed to danger, has a fort already made about 
and there provisions may be most easily had ; for these Reasons let the Chief Quarters be there ; 
let five men be constantly at Phillip Davies', William Marshall's and Thomas Waddel's, which 
shall be relieved every day by the patrolling guards ; let ten men be sent early every morning 
from the Chief Quarters to Thomas Waddel's and ten return from thence back in the evening, 
likewise ten men sent from the Chief Quarters to the other extremity daily, to go by William 
Marshall's to Phillip Davies and return the same way in the afternoon. By this Plan the 
Whole Bounds will be patrolled every Day ; a watch will be constantly kept at four most impor- 
tant Places and there will be every night 45 men at ye Chief Quarters ready for any Exigence." 

It was the intention of the Pennsylvania authorities to have a magazine at McDowell's Fort, 
with a stockade around the store houses. This was to be used as a base of supplies for the army 
that was expected to capture Fort Du Quesne. "I send you the plan of the fort or stockade," 
Governor Morris wrote to General Braddock July 6, 1755, which I shall make by setting logs 
about 10 ft. long in the ground, so as to enclose the store houses. I think to place two swivel 
guns in two of the opposite bastions, which will be sufficient to guard against any attack of 
small arms." 

Three days after this letter was written Braddock's ill-fated expedition came to an end. The 
magazine became unnecessary but John McDowell built a stockade around mill and house; the 
two swivel guns were sent to the fort late in the autumn. 

Thomas Waddel's was near by Waddel's graveyard, on what is now the Etter farm. 

IFort Satrtfl 

This was erected by Philip Davis in 1756 and was situated near the Maryland boundary 
line. It was a private fort, but was often garrisoned by companies of rangers. It seems to have 
been located near Casey's Knob, on the McPherran farm, now owned by the Royer heirs, two 



24 (^ih Mntnabnr^ 

miles southwest of Welsh Run, according to the "Report of the Commission to Locate the Fron- 
tier Forts of Pennsylv,ania." 

William Marshall's is not located ; possibly is was the same as William Maxwell's. 

iiaxuipU's iFnrt 

This was a private fort built by William Maxwell. It stood between Welsh Run and Upton, 
on Judge Maxwell's farm, afterwards the Duffield farm. The fort was built of-logs and was but 
a few rods distant from the old stone mansion which was built later by the ]\Iaxwells and is still 
standing. This was formerly the home of James Duffield, Esq., of Welsh Run, within whose 
recollection there were still standing some remnants of the old fort. 

The difificulties under which the defenders of the frontier labored are shown in a letter writ- 
ten by Mr. Steele to Governor Morris, April ii, 1756: 

"Most of the forts have not received their full complement of guns. But we are in a great 
measure supplied by the arms the young men had brought with them. Captain Patterson had re- 
ceived but 33 fire-arms. Captain Mercer has not so many, but is supplied by Mr. Croghan's arms, 
and Captain Hamilton has lost a considerable number of his at the late skirmish at Sideling Hill. 
As I can neither have the men, arms, nor blankets, I am obliged to apply to your Honor for 
them; the necessity of the circumstances has obliged me to muster before two magistrates the 
one-half of my company whom I enlisted and am obliged to order guns. I pray that with all 
possible expedition 54 arms and as many blankets and a quantity of flints, may be sent to me, 
for since McCord's Fort has been taken and the men defeated and pursued, our country is in 
the utmost confusion, great numbers have left the county and many are preparing" to follow. May 
it please your honor to enlist me an ensign, for I find a sergeant's pay will not prevail with 
men to enlist in whom much confidence is reposed. I beg leave to recommend Archibald Erwin 
to your honor for the purpose." (Rupp, p. 105.) 

McCord's Fort, mentioned here, was a private fort near Mt. Parnell, which was destroyed 
by the Indians on or about April 4, 1756. All the inmates, twenty-seven in number, were either 
killed or carried into captivity. This fort was on the farm now owned by John W. Bossart, mid- 
way between St. Thomas and Strasburg. 

The Provincial Records have this under date of Sept. 6, 1756: "A petition was presented 
and read from the Rev. John Steele, captain of a company at Conococheague in the pay of the 
Province, representing the most miserable condition to which the upper part of Cumberland 
(now Franklin) county, bordering on Maryland, was reduced by the ravages of the Indians and 
the numbers killed and taken into captivity." 

In July of this year "a party of Indians surprised 2 of Capt. Steele's men as they were 
guarding some reapers, killed and scalped one, the other they carried oflf; the reapers made their 
escape." 

Again — "One of the soldiers from Maxwell's Mill that went with two women to the spring 
for water is missing ; the women got in safe to the fort and almost at the same time a man and 
woman were scalped a few miles on the other side of the mill." 

"November 9, 1757, John Woods, his wife and mother-in-law, and the wife of John Archer, 
were killed, four children taken captives, and nine men killed near McDowell's mill." 

In 1 761 an alarm of Indians caused all the settlers to flee to McDowell's Mill for safety. After 
a time, the enemy seemingly having disappeared, and the supplies at the fort being low, one, 
Mrs. Cunningham, who was a sister of Rev. John King, laid it upon herself as a duty, to return 
to her own home, it being close by, and bring milk for the children. This she did, whereupon an 
Indian, lurking nearby, suffered her to milk the cows and return as far as to the foot of the hill 
near the fort, when he shot her in the back, killing her almost in sight of the fort. 

John Work, who was one of the early settlers in "The Corner," returning one day from 
tending his traps, found his house in flames and saw an Indian running away. Although the 
distance was great the settler raised his gun and fired ; the Indian fell, killed instantly. He was 
buried on the spot, where his grave can yet be seen. 




THK FIRST AMERICANS 
Civilization I)i-ivinj4 the Aborigine Westward 



mh Mnnrabm^ 



25 



iFart Houlinn 

Fort Loudon was located about one mile southwest of the present village of Fort Loudon. 
It was built on the land of an early settler, Matthew Patton. This farm, which long remained 
in possession of the Patton family, is now owned by William Hoerner. The fort was built by 
Colonel Armstrong in 1756, to take the place of Fort McDowell, which was not deemed strong 
enough for the protection of the valley at this point, where the gaps in the Tuscarora Range gave 
the Indians easy access to the Kittochtinny Valley. 

Colonel Armstrong wrote to Governor Denny, dated McDowell, Nov. 19, 1756, "To-day we 
begin to Digg a Cellar in the New Fort. The Loggs and Roof of a new house having been 
erected by Patton before the Indians burned his Old One. We shall apprise this house and 
then take the benefit of it, either for Officers Barracks or a Store House ; by which Means the 
Provisions may the sooner be moved from this place, which at present divides our strength." The 
public stores were accordingly removed from McDowell's to Fort Loudon in December, 1756. 

It can be readily seen that the settlement at Black's Town was outside the chain of forts 
and consequently must have been insignificant at that time. Some of the oldest inhabitants of a 
generation back told of a fort that stood near the Run where George Steiger's residence now 
stands. While this is all very vague, it is probable there was a block house or stronghold of 
some sort here, but the place was evidently too weak or unimportant to be included in the gen- 
eral plan for the defense of the frontier. 




m 



'ILLIAM Smith's eventful and prosperous life was closed by death on the 27th of March, 
1775. The following is a certified copy of his Will, recorded in the Cumberland County 
Records, Will Book B, p. 108. 

"In the name of god Amen I Wm. Smyth of Peters Township County of Cumberland 
& Province of Pennsylvania Being in some measure Indisposed in body yet through the 
Abundant goodness of Almighty god of sound mind & memory & calling to mind the uncertainty of 
this life & that it is appointed for all men once to die do constitute & make this my Last will & Testa- 
ment in manner & form following that is to say — 

"First I give & bequeath my soul to god who gave it & my body to the Dust from whence 
it was taken in full assurance of its Resurrection from thence at the Last day Looking for par- 
don «S: mercy from god only through the prevailing & compleat satisfaction of Jesus Christ. 

"As to what worldly estate god has been pleased to bless me with I will & positively order 
that all my just debts be first paid & Discharged as also my funeral expences. I also will that 
my wife Mary shall have one bed & its furniture of her own choosing & that all the Residue of 
the Household furniture Shall Remain in her possession untill my Minor children come to Ma- 
ture age at which time She Shall have full power to divide it Among them at her own Discre- 
tion. Item I also will that She Shall have the third part of the Remainder of my Personal Estate 
that is of the Sum Arising when Sold by my Ex.rs herein after Mention'd as also a third part of 
all out standing Debts whether by bond, note or book Acct. Item I further will that my minor 
children be Mantain'd & Edicated by my wife at her Discretion & Direction whether in a State 
of widowhood or Manage & to Enable her the Better to do the Same I will & order that She 
Shall have the Managemt of & Enjoy all the profits arising from the farm I now Live on that is 
as Distinct from the Tenemt. whereon my Soninlaw Saml. Findlay now dwells and to be here- 
after described, provided nevertheless, & I do hereby will that She my Wife, do pay yearly & 
ever}' year the sum of ten pounds into the hands of the Guardians hereafter named (to be by 
them managed in trust for the use of my Son William) untill he, my Son William Shall come to 
mature age, and that her enjoyment & Management of said farm shall continue until & no 
longer than untill my Son Robert Shall come to the age of twenty one years, at which time she 
may enter upon & take possession of that mesuage of piece of Land on which William Robison 
now lives to be laid oflf beginning at my line by the corner of Widow Blacks garden and running 
thence easterly along my meadow fence until! it strikes the Southwest corner of my barn-field, 
thence by a Southerly line across the meadow to the westaer fence of the field on the South side 
thereof & by that fence in a direct course to the bounding line of the Farm I now dwell on, and 
thence by the western boundary of said farm to the place of beginning: which Tract this described 
I will and bequeath to her, my Wife, during her life free of all incumberances, but upon her de- 
cease to revert back to the Estate of my Son Robert hereafter mentioned. And I do further will 
& order that if my Wife Mary shall die either in a State of widowhood or marriage before my 
Son Robert comes to mature age, that then the Farm I now live on be rented by the Executors 
& Guardians hereafter to be mentioned, or a majority of them, and the money thence arising 
to be applied by them for the maintainance education & use of the minor Children in the Same 
manner as before directed, which minors in that case I will to be under said Guardians care & 
disposal. Item, I will and confirm to my son-in-law Samuel Findla}', or upon his decease, to his 
Wife Jean, the use of that Tenement on which they now dwell, that is, all the Privileges he now 
enjoys upon it (except cutting & Selling of green Timber) untill my Son William arrives at the 
age of twenty one years. Item I give and bequeath unto my Son William his heirs and as- 
signs forever all that Missuage or tenement of Land (part of my original Tract) on which Sam- 

26 



uel Findlay now dwells, with all its advantages & improvements, to be entered upon & posses- 
sed by him at mature age, beginning at a White Oak joining Robert Smiths Land, & running 
thence North eighty three degrees West fifty two perches to a sycamore, then South seven de- 
grees West two hundred & fifty two perches to a red Oak, Then North seventy ha degrees 
East eighty two perches to a post, thence North one degree East two hundred & twenty four 
perches to the place of beginning, containing Ninety two Acres and allowances. I also will & 
order that my son William his heirs & assigns forever shall have full liberty and privilege to con- 
vey water by canal, trough, or otherwise from my Mill race to the Tan-yard erected upon the 
tenement above discribed sufficient for the uses thereof. I also give and bequeath to my said 
son William his heirs & assigns for ever all that tract of land called the Flaggy Meadows, situ- 
ate in Air Township in the little Cove. Item, I give & bequeath to my son Robert his heirs & 
assigns for ever all that Mesuage or Tract of land on which I now live with all the advantages 
& Improvements thereof (accept the legacies & bequethments above mentioned) to be fully 
possessed by him at mature age. As to my lands on Licking Creek now occupied by John Burd, 
having bargined with him to sell it to him for seventy pounds, Pennsylvania currency. I also 
hereby authorize & impower my Executor, upon his paying to them the said fund of seventy 
pounds with lawful Interest for the same within three years after the date of this testament to 
make him a lawful conveyance of said Tract. And whereas about twelve years ago I sold a part 
of the original tract on which I now dwell to my brother Robert Smith containing about One 
hundred and thirty acres at thirty shillings per acre to be paid in yearly gales of thirty pounds a 
year, all which he has not yet discharged; & whereas he bought said tract from me subject to 
the purchase money Quitrent and Interest due or to become due to the Proprietors & writings 
concerning the whole bargin having been neglected to be taken ; I will and order that upon his 
paying the whole of the Proprietaries dues from said tract from the first grant of it from them 
(except a proportional part, according to the quanty of the land he bought of ten pounds paid in 
to the Office by James Black) as also upon his paying to my Executors that sum of the purchase 
money that upon settlement shall be found due to my estate with lawful interest for the same ac- 
cording to the dates of the several deficienties in payment or upon his giving sufficient security 
for the said payment of all these sums at the experat'ion of the term of three years from the date 
of this testament, then and that case, my Executor shall make to the said Robert Smith a suffi- 
cient & lawful Conveyance of said Tract of land, & on which he now dwells. As to my other 
land not as yet mentioned herein, that is to say, that tract of land on the head springs of the Shade 
Creek now tenteded by Morris Mickelmar ; that Tract in the forks of Yogh & Monongahela 
called the Mill seat adjoining Morris Brady ; my Interest in land on Crooked Creek in partner- 
ship with Doctor Allison and Samuel Findley as my interest on the same footing in that Tract 
at the old Saweekly Town ; as also my improvement and Land on Pattersons run, all these I 
will & order to be sold at the discretion of my executors & Guardian or a majority of them, here- 
by authorizing them to convey said Tract to the respective purchasers. Item, I give and order 
that all the money arising from the sale of these lands, as also the twothirds of that part of my 
personal estate which I have ordered to be sold and the twothirds of my just dues be applied to 
the following purposes that is, I will & order that One hundred & fifty pounds thereof be given 
to my daughter Mary on her marriage or at mature age and that all my lands herein bequeathed 
to my two sons be patented out of a part thereof, and that the residue thereof (if any) be equally 
divided among all my children as well married as unmarried. Item, I will that if my daughter 
Mary should die before marriage or majority her part of my estate herein bequeathed, to her 
shall be equally divided between my two daughters Jane & Rebecca, & that if anyone of my sons 
shall die before mature age, that then his part herein bequeathed to him shall revert to the sur- 
viving Son. 

"And lastly I do hereby constitute and appoint my trusty and well-beloved friend my brother 
Abraham Smith, my Son-in-law John Johnston, & Dugal Cambell, Executors of this my last will 
and testament & johnathan Smith, James McDowell, & Mathew Wilson Guardians of my 
minor Children & estate. 

"In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand & seal acknowledgeing this to be my last 



28 mh MntUBbm^ 

Will and testament this seventh day of September in the Year of our Lord one thousand seven 
hundred & seventy four. "Wm. Smith. 

"Signed, sealed & acknowledged /"James Johnston, 

"E. MooRE, 
"In presence of "William Robison. 



ss. 



"Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, 

"County of Cumberland. 

"Register's Ofifice, April 17, 191 1. 

"I, J. L. Rickabaugh, Register for the Probate of \\'ills and granting Letters of Administration for 
the County of Cumberland, in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, do hereby certify the foregoing to 
be a true and accurate copy of the Last Will and Testament of Wm. Smyth, late of Peters Township, 
Cumberland Co., Pa., dec'd, as recorded in Will Book "B," page 108, as the same remains on file and of 
record in this office. 

"In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and official seal at Carlisle, the date above 

(Seal) "J. L. Rickabaugh, 

"Register of Wills." 

The original, and copy in the Will Book, were so badly defaced that a magnifying glass had to be 
used to decipher a part of it. 

The accompanying map shows the tract of land as William Smith devised it to his heirs. 

The tract to the west, including the home and mill bequeathed to his son Robert, was patented by 
him in 1794, of which the following is a copy. 
"The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. 
"To all to whom these Presents shall come, Greeting: 

"KNOW YE, That in consideration of the monies paid by James Black into the late Proprietaries 
at the granting of the warrant hereinafter mentioned & of the sum of fifty nine pounds five shillings & 
three pence lawful money now paid by Robert Sfiiitli, into the Recr Genls office of this Commonwealth 
there is granted, by the said Commonwealth, unto the said Robert Smith a certain Tract of Land, called 
"Smithfield" situate partly in Peters & partly in Montgomery Townships in Franklin County begin- 
ning at a Black Oak, thence by land of Sarali Smith alias Sarah Irzi'iii North to a Button Wood South- 
east to a Stump thence by land of Doer. William Magozn' North to a post North to a Hickory thence by 
land now of John IVray North to a White Oak thence by land of Benjamin Kirkpatrick South to a 
post thence by the same & land of James Huston South to a post to the beginning. Containing three 
hundred thirty one Acres one hundred forty seven perches and allowances of six per cent, for roads, &c. 
(Which said Tract was surveyed in pursuance of a Warrant dated 17 August 1751. granted to the 
said James Black who by Deed dated 22d Octor. 1759. conveyed the same to Wm. Smith, Esqr. who 
by will dated 7 September 1774 Devised the same unto his son the said Robert Smith) with the appur- 
tenances " 

Dated April 23, 1794. (Signed) "Thos. AIifflin." 

The tract to the east was patented in 1792 by Dr. Magaw. On the northern end of this tract is the 
large spring known to the community as the Doctor Spring, and named for its owner. Here the 
town people watered their horses and cattle. 

"The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. 
"To all to whom these Presents shall come. Greeting : 

"KNOW YE, That in consideration of the monies paid by James Black unto the late Proprietaries 
at the granting of the warrant hereinafter mentioned & of the sum of fifty nine pounds two shillings 
& four pence lawful money now paid by William Magazv into the Receiver Generals Office of this Com- 
monwealth there is granted by the said Commonwealth unto the said Willia)ii Magaiv a certain Tract 
of Land, called "Springfield" situate now in Montgomery Township, Franklin County beginning at 
a post thence by land of William Shannon thence by land of Mathezv Wilson thence by land of John 
Wray thence by land of Sarah Smith to the beginning. Containing One Hundred & thirty seven 
Acres and allowance of six per cent, for roads, &c. (which said tract is part of a larger tract which was 
surveyed in pursuance of a warrant dated 17 August 1751 granted to the said James Black who by 
deed of 22 October 1759 Conveyed a certain Tract of land of which the above is part) to William Smith 



whose Executors Abraham Smith Si John Johnston f^yo of the Executors of the last Will & Testament 
of said IVilliain Smith by Indenture dated 4 June 1791 Conveyed the above described Tract to Robert 
Smith who with Grizel his wife by deed dated said 4 June Conveyed the same to the said William 
Magaw with the appurtenances." 

"Dated August 20, 1792. (Signed) "Thos. Mifflin." 

The central part was devised to his son William and on it he laid out, March 17, 1786, a new town 
which he named Mercersburg, in honor of the gallant Hugh Mercer — a fitting tribute to one who had 
lived among these people, attended them in sickness, shared their dangers and led them out against 
their common foe. William Smith, Jr., did not live to see this town built, but left directions in his 
will for carrying out his plans. The following is a copy of his will as recorded in the Franklin County 
Records, Book A, p. 79. 

"In the Name of God Amen, this twenty first day of March in the year of our Lord one thousand 
seven hundred and eighty six. I William Smith, of Montgomery Township in Franklin county and 
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, being sick and weak in body but of sound and perfect mind Memory 
and understanding. Blessed be god, and calling to mind my Mortality and that it is apointed for all 
men once to die, do make ordain Constitute and apoint this to be my last will and Testament, and that 
in manner and form following — Imprimis. I Commit my soul into the hands of Almightv god who 
gave it, and my body to the earth to be buried in Decent and Christian Burial at the Discretion of my 
Executors hereinafter named. And as Touching such worldly estate wherewith it hath pleased god to 
bless me in this life I give Demise and Dispose of the same in the following way and manner. Item first 
I allow all my just debts and Funeral Charges to be paid by my Executors without Unnecessarv Law 
suits or trouble. Item 2nd — My Executors hereinafter named I do hereby Authorize and Impower to 
act and do in all manner of thing and things respecting a new town lately layed out by me and called 
Mersers Burgh by Making Title to the purchasers, signing sealing and Delivering &c in as full clear and 
ample a manner as I myself might or could do were I alive and personally present According to the 
plan of the same and I furder Impower them to make a Conveyance of a Lot of ground and Tan vard 
to Benjamin Chestnut which I sold to him when he shall have performed his part of the contract agree- 
able to Bargain. Item 3rd — It is my will that my Executors out of the money Arising from the Sale of 
lots in the above mentioned Town do build on that Lot that I have reserved near where my stable now 
stands a neat and Commodious house of a midling size at their Discretion and put it in order for my 
wife and Daughter to live in. Item 4th— After building the house as before directed it is my will that 
the remainder of the moneys arising as afiforesaid be equally Divided between my well Beloved wife 
Margaret Smith and my little Daughter Salley Smith and that the child's part be put to Interest for 
her use untill she arrives at years of Discretion and that she shall have a right to call for it at her 
Mariage or Otherwise when she shall be Eighteen years of age, and it is my will that her mother 
keep her in Decency clear of costs untill she be fourteen years of age giving her a Common Education, 
and that after she is fourteen years of age she shall be provided for out of her own part. Item 5th — 
I give and Bequeath to my well Beloved wife Margaret Smith before named all my household Furni- 
ture, all my Horned Cattle, my Bay Mear and colt and also the one half of the money Arising from the 
yearly ground rents of the Town of Mersers Burgh and also the one half of the money arising from 
the rent of my Dwelling house now rented to Archibald Irwin, which is hereafter to be rented from 
time to time by my Executors, those Incomes and rents to hold to her during her Natural life. Item 
6th — I give and Bequeath to my well Beloved Daughter Salley Smith the Other one half of the moneys 
Arising from the ground rents of Mersers Burgh and also of the other half of the rent of the house 
above mentioned to be put to Interest from time to time for her use and to be paved as before Directed. 
Item "th — Should my wife Before mentioned be called of by Death before my Daughter it is my will 
that the rents of property before Bequeathed to her to Devolve to my said Daughter, and should she my 
said Daughter be called of before she has proper heirs then the Town Lands and rents to Devolve to my 
Brother Robert Smith and his heirs or assigns and the house rent to my Sister Mary Smith and her heirs 
and also the house and Lot on which it stands to her and her heirs and assigns. I lease also to my 
Brother Robert all my wearing Apperall and it is aiso my will that my Daughters Money she dving 
young shall be Devided equally between my Brother and Sister before named. Item 8th — My Black 
horse I allow to be sold and my Silver Watch one half of their price to my wife and the other to my 
Daughter. Item 9th. — It is my will that my wife afiforesaid do furnish my Daughter before named 
when she comes to years of Discretion with a good feather bed and furniture. Item loth — I would have 



30 



mh Mmtv&bnvB 



it understood by the Seventh Item that at the Disease of my wife my Daughter being ahve the whole 
property is vested in her and her Lawful! heirs but she Dying without heirs to Desend as Directed by 
that Item. Item Last — I do hereby ordain constitute and apoint my trusty friends Matthew Willson and 
James Stewart my whole and sole Executors of this my Last Will and Testament in whose Fidelity I 
confide for the faithfull Discharge of the trust reposed in them hereby revoaking and Disanulling all 
other will and wills by me at any time heretofore made and Confirming this and no other as my last 
Will and Testament as witness my hand and seal the day of the within Date. Signed sealed and 

"Wm. Smith. 

!"JoHN King, 
"P.\TRICK CaMPBEXL, 
"John Work." 

The patent for the site of Mercersburg was granted to Mrs. Sarah Brownson (the little daughter 
Sally) March 27, 1840. 



pronounced. 

"In presence of 




Jn ©If? afunluttnn nnh War of 1B12 

5T IS difficult to determine the soldiers who enlisted in the War of the Revolution from West 
Conococheague, as it then was part of Cumberland county. There was one Company, No. 4, 
from Peters township, that had the following officers : Captain, James Patton ; First Lieu- 
tenant, Thomas JMcDowell ; Second Lieutenant, John Welsh ; Ensign, John Dickey. An- 
other, Company 6, recruited from Montgomery and Peters townships. Captain, William Hus- 
ton ; First Lieutenant, William Elliott ; Second Lieutenant, James McFarland ; Ensign, Robert Kyle. It 
was on the ocassion of this Company starting for the field that Dr. King made his stirring patriotic 
address before accompaning it as Chaplain. William Smith, Jr., the founder of Mercersburg, was a 
lieutenant in this Company and captain in 1780. Captain John Marshall, Joseph Mitchell, James Mor- 
rison, Walter McKinney, James Smith, James Herod, William McDowell, Sr., Robert McCoy, Samuel 
Patton, William Waddell, Robert McFarland, and Jonathan Smith are given as soldiers in this war. 
William, James and David Rankin, three brothers, and Jeremiah, a son of James, all enrolled in Cap- 
tain Huston's Company. 

In the above list of men giveft as soldiers in the Revolutionary War first appears the name of 
James Herrod, who, subsequently emigrated to Kentucky, and who founded and after whom was named 
the town or village of Harrodsburg, in that State. That this James Harrod came from Mercersburg 
is clear from an old ledger kept by one of the earliest storekeepers in Mercersburg, and still in existence, 
which contains an entry, as follows : 

"Col. James Herrod, Land to be taken up for my use on Cain Tuskee or Cumberland River, or 
where the Colonel pleaseth, it being situate for trade." That what we now know as Kentucky was, 
even in those early days, engaging the attention and interest of the settlers in and around Mercersburg 
is manifested from the will of William Shannon, registered in Franklin County Records, June 15, 1786, 
in which he wills, viz : 

"I also will and devise unto my son Nathaniel Shannon his heirs and assigns all my right and title 
in or to a warrant for four hundred acres of land in Cane Took Settlement." (Kentucky.) 

^Military spirit ran high in this vallev during the Revolution, as it did in the early days when the 
pioneers had organized themselves into a militia as their only safeguard. After this War the Assembly 
enacted laws for the regular organization of the militia and appointed officers to take charge and hold 
regular encampments and muster days. These muster days were great annual events in the country 
and were continued for many years. An old ledger gives the following items : 

"Aug. 4, 1775. To expenses for Muster Master, i shilling 4 pence; to i quart Rum at the Mus- 
ter, I shilling 6 pence." 

No notices of these early events have been preserved, but some of a later date are here given : 

"Notice is hereby given, that the ist Battalion, 118th Reg., P. M. will meet for drill and inspec- 
tion at Mercersburg, on Wednesday, the loth day of May next — and the 2d Battalion of said Regi- 
ment, will meet at Loudon, on Thursday, the iith day of May next, at 10 o'clock A. M. precisely, on 
each dav. Bv order of Col. J. P. Brewer. "E. Negley, Adj't. 

"April 23, 1843." 

"Attention Artillerists ! 

"You are ordered to parade at your usual place, on Wednesday the tenth day of May, at 10 o'clock 
A. M. in summer uniform. "C.\leb C. Ch.vmbers, O. S. 

"There will an election be held on that day, at the house of Capt. John Shaffer, to elect one person 
for Captain of said companv. "J. C. Boyd, Maj. 

"ist Bat. 118th Reg., P. M. 

"Irvin Bennet will superintend the election. 
"Mercersburg, April 29, 1843." 

"Attention Artillerists ! 

"You are ordered to meet at vour usual place, on Tuesday, the 23 inst., at 7 o'clock A. M. to take 

31 



32 



(§ili Mnavahnx^ 



up the line of March for the Greencastle Encampment, provided with 12 rounds blank cartridge; and 
full winter and summer Uniform. 

"The buff stripe for pants, can be had on Saturday the 20 inst. By Order, 

"May 13, 1843. "Caleb C. Chambers, O. S." 

"Attention Cavalry ! 

"The first troop of Franklin County Cavalry will parade in Mercersburg, on Tuesday, the 4th of 
July, at 10 o'clock. By Order 
"June 24, 1843. "Cephas B. Huston, O. S." 

In 1812, even before the formal declaration of war was proclaimed by the President, the Mercers- 
burg Rifles, numbering seventy-two officers and men, under Captain James JNIcDowell, tendered their 
services to Governor Simon Snyder as part of any quota of troops that might be called from Penn- 
sylvania. The Mercersburg Rifles left in September, 1812, under Captain Patrick Hays. They were 
part of the first detachment to leave the county. 

In 1814, a troop of cavalry from Mercersburg, under Captain Matthew Patton, went to Balti- 
more but were not accepted, as cavalry were not needed. The majority of the men, detemiined to go to 
the war, disposed of their horses and joined the infantry. Another company, under Captain Thomas 
Bard, left here in September, 1814. 

First Company: Captain, Patrick Hays; Lieutenant, John Small; Ensign, Samuel Elder. 



James McQuown, 
Jacob Cain. 



Sergeants. 
Jacob Small, George Spangler. 

Corporals. 
John Donothen, Joseph Herrington, 

FiFER. 

John Mull. 

Drummer. 
Jacob Wise. 



Jacob Williams, 



Daniel Leer, 



Privates. 



James Bennet, 
John Crouch, 
Samuel Campbell, 
John Dunlap, 
John Harris, 
Join tiallin, 
.\'--"aifa.n Hodskins, 
Robert McFarland 
Charles McPike, 
Charl^ P^ttet, 
Petei- a each, 



Isaac Brubaker, 
John Clapsaddle., 
Alex. Dunlap, 
James Elder, 
Jacob Hodskins, 
John Hastier, 
Peter Kyler, 
William McQuown. 
Campbell Montgomery, 
Henry SuiTcoal, 
Henrv Wea\-er, 



Samuel Craig, 
Henry Cline, 
Frederick Devilbiss, 
Peter Gaster, 
Jonas Hissong, 
John Llart, 
John King, 
John Mowry, 
William McCurdy, 
William Snffcoal, 
Daniel Welker, 



Joseph Cunningham, 
\Mlliam Cooper, 
David Deetrich, 
Jacob Groscope, 
William Hart, 
James Halland, 
Robert McQuown, 
James McDowell, 
Samuel Martin, 
William Stewart, 
lames Walker. 



I^iercersburg Company under Captain Thomas Card; First Lieutenant, James McDowell; Scconc 
Lieutenant, John Johnston; Ensign, Joseph Bowers. 



A. T. Dean, 



G. Duffield, 



Sergeants. 

Thomas Smith, 



G. Spangler. 




MINTTE-MAN OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION 
By H. Daniel Webster, Sculptor 



WUi MtmvBbntQ 



33 



William Smith, 



John Abbott, 
John Coxe, 
John Donnyhon, 
Jeremiah Evans, 
Joseph Garvin, 
William Hart, 
Frederick Henchy, 
John King, 
Thomas McDowell, 
James McNeal, 
Robert McCoy, 
Matthew Patton, 
Thomas Speer, 
John Sybert, 
Thomas Williamson, 
James Walker, 



Corporals. 
William McDowell, Thomas Grubb, 

FiFER. 

John Mull. 



Privates. 



John Brown, 
John Campbell, 
Joseph Dick, 
John Furley, 
James Garver, 
Joseph Harrington, 
John Harrer, 
John Liddy, 
William McDowell, Sr., 
Augustus McNeal, 
John McCulloh, 
Charles Pike, 
James Sheilds, 
Thomas Squire, 
William Wilson, 
William Rankin, 



Archibald Bard, 
Samuel Craig, 
Joseph Dunlap,, 
Leonard Gaff, 
William Glass, 
James Hamilton, 
William Houston, 
James McDowell, 
George McFerren, 
Samuel Markle, 
John Maxwell, 
David Robston, 
David Smith, 
Conrad Stinger, 
John W^erlby, 
Thomas Waddle, 



Thomas Johnston. 



Robert Carson, 
John Cox, Jr., 
Peter Elliott, 
John Glaze, 
Henry Garner, 
James Harrison, 
Samuel Johnston, 
John McClelland, 
James i\Iontgomery, 
John McCurdy, 
William McKinstry, 
William Stewart,. 
George Stevens, 
Samuel Witherow, 
John Witherow, 
Christopher Wise. 



Other citizens of the town who served in this war were John Shrader, William Baxter, and 
Adam McAllister. 

In the Mexican War were Alexander McKinstry. William McClay, and William McKonchy. 




i^uH^pm^nt 



M 



ONTGOMERY township was created in 1781, the Run being the dividing line between 
it and Peters in the town. It was named Montgomery in honor of the hero who fell at 
Quebec. Peters received its name from the Colonial Secretary, Richard Peters. The 
polling place for the two townships in 1787 was James Crawford's Tavern, on the south 
side of the Run, and it continued there or at McAfee's Hotel until the latter was burned. 
After that Montgomery voted at the Mercer House, while Peters' voting place was across the Race 
bridge at Snyder's. 

The Mercersburg postoffice was established in 1803. The first postmaster was James Bahn. Pre- 
vious to this, one wrote a letter and then waited and watched for an opportunity to send it by the 
hand of some person going in the direction the letter was to go. An advertisement of the mails in 
1843 reads: "The Eastern Mail is closed every day at yi past i o'clock P. M. and arrives at 11 o'clock 
P. M. The Western Mail is closed every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and arrives every Tues- 
day, Thursday, and Saturday. The Post-office is closed every day at 9 o'clock P. M. except on Satur- 
day it is kept open 'till the arrival of the Eastern IMail." 

Mercersburg suffered in the epidemic of fever which visited this county 1821-23. This is de- 
scribed in the American Medical Recorder for Julv, 1823. Dr. Creigh gives the number of deaths 
from it in his congregation as seventy -two. 

The town of Mercersburg was incorporated in 1831. The population at that time was seven hun- 
dred. There were five mercantile houses, Messrs. Lane, Chambers, J. O. Carson and Dick, Thomas 
Carson and Grubb. Patton and Bard ; there were five phvsicians, P. W. Little, James P. Scott, E. Mc- 
Govern, Alexander Speer, and John McDowell. 

Up to the time Marshall College was founded in 1835, t'le houses of Mercersburg were mostly log 
with a few of stone. The latter were all built about the same time. Squire IMcKinstn,- said that the 
stone house on the southeast corner of the square, owned bv D. M. B. Shannon, was in course of con- 
struction when he, the Squire, came to town in the year 1796, so it is not hard to approximate the age 
of the different old stone houses. With the coming of JNIarshall College the town experienced a boom, 
and it was during this that many of the large brick houses were erected. 

In 1837 an .\bolitionist riot occurred here. A lecturer named Blanchard was mobbed by a crowd 
composed largely of Southern students of Marshall College. It was with difficulty that he was res- 
cued and hurried away from town. The communitv was excited and much bitter feeling followed for 
some time. A full account of this is given in College Recollections bv Dr. Theodore Appel. 

The first newspaper was published in 1843, as "The Mercersburg Visitor," which was later 
changed to "Mercersburg Journal." For several years it was called "The Good Intent," but in 1863 the 
title "Mercersburg Journal" was resumed and has been used ever since. 

A census of Mercersburg taken by John D. Crillv, July i, 1857, gives, white population, 942; white 
families, 149; colored population, 206; colored families, 179; total population, 1.148. 

" ■ ----- Stone and Earthen Ware ^Ifg., i 

Theological Seminary, i 
High School, I 
Chair ?^Iakers, 2 
Segar and Match Mfg., i 
Saddle and Harness Mfg., i 
Tin and Sheet Iron Mfg., 3 
Blacksmith Shops, 4 
Plow Mfg., r 
Coach Mfg., I 
Cabinet Ware Mfg., 3 
Carpenter Shops, 4 
Wagon Makers, 2 
Shoe Makers, 4 



Foundn.-, i 


Livery Stables, 2 


Drygoods Stores, 4 


Attorneys, 2 


Grocery Store, i 


Physicians, 4 


Hardware Store, i 


Merchants. 9 


Flour and Feed Store, i 


Clerks, 12 


Machine Shop, i 


ClergA-men, 6 


Hotels, 2 


Professors, 4 


Restaurants, 2 


Theological Students, 6 


Churches, 6 


Dentists, 3 


Clothing Store, i 


High School Students, 19 


Printing Office, i 


Steam Flouring Mill, i 


Drug Store, i 


Steam Saw Mill, i 


Shoe and Hat Store, i 


Steam Tannery, r 


Book Stores, 2 


Tannery, i 




34 




The lluu.se uf middling ^ize 

built about 1786 for the Widow 

of William Smith 



"llark'a Qlomn" ani> "i'quto ^tnttlj'H Snmu" 

iran-irae 



Ar THE northern end of the town, near, or on the site of the present mill, stood the small log 
mill built by James Black. Around this sprang up a little settlement which became known 
as "Black's Town." Little is known of this, but after its purchase by William Smith in 
1/59 the name gradually fell into disuse and "Smith's Town" or "Squire Smith's Town"' 
took its place. 

Squire Smith then operated the mill, the water being conveyed by a race, as it is now. How long 
this mill has stood is not known, but a mill of some sort has occupied this place ever since James 
Black's time. Though several times destroyed by fire, it has always been rebuilt. In the years follow- 
in Smith's ownership, it passed through many hands, his son's and grandson's, the Dick's, Carson's, 
Hollinger's, Whitmer's, Waidlick's and Gish's. 

Across the road, almost opposite the mill, the Squire built for himself a home — a one-story stone 
house, long, low and roomy, with the gable end fronting the roadway. The house is still standing. It 
and the race are the only renmants of the once "Squire Smith's Town." Recently the house has had a 
second story and other improvements added to it by its present owner, Mr. Criswell. On one of the 
stones of the house can be distinctly traced the initials of its original owner, "W. S." In this house 
Squire Smith lived and died. During his life here he had grown to be a man of some importance, and 
being of great energy and versatility, he conducted, in addition to the mill, a store, a tavern, a distil- 
lery, and a tanyard. 

The tanyard described in his will was situated on the north side of Smith's Run and is now 
known as the Steiger property. The first deed of this place recites the part of Squire Smith's will relat- 
ing to the tanyard. William Smith, Jr., on or about May 13, 1784, entered into a contract with one, 
Benjamin Chestnut, for the sale of this tanyard,, including "all the land between the meadow fences 
and the old water course within his lines," etc. This sale was completed in 1803 by the executors of 
William Smith, Jr., as empowered by him in his will. This tanyard belonged successively to Enoch 
Skinner, the Kellars and Golls. In 1820 it was sold at sheriff's sale and then for the first time the 
house is mentioned : "lot of ground, stone house, tanyard and stable thereon erected fronting the Main 
street, adjoining James Skiles' on the north, William Van Dyke on the west and John Brownson on the 
south." After belonging to both Thomas and Eliott Lane it was bought by William Patterson, also a 
tanner. Then it was purchased by the late George C. Steiger, who for many years conducted his 
butcher shop here successfullv. 

The James Skyles property, known as the Sharrar place, adjoining the Steiger one on the north, 
was a frame house and smithshop. On the east side of the street, the lot north of the Run was sold 
in 1797 by Robert Smith. This lot changed owners frequently, among whom were John Angle, farmer, 
Samuel Johnston, William Dick and John Anderson. In 1823 it had on it a "brick dwelling house, stone 
brewery and distillery, adjoining lands of Philip Davis and Robert Smith." For many years the Dicks 
operated this as a distillers', but later changed it to a tannery. Charles Eyester then purchased it. 
Later Major North bought the propertv as well as the one-story dwelling house on the north, and 
here he lived and conducted the tannerv for many years. The earliest owner of the stone dwelling of 
whom we have any knowledge was a Major Davis. Later the Irwins owned it and lived here. Major 
North added the second story to this stone house which now belongs to Samuel Hege. The tannery 
property was purchased by Ezra Brubaker, who converted the stone building into a town hall. After 
serving as such for a few years, it was converted into the present furniture store. 

North of this, where Jacob Poflfinberger's house stands, was a log house, back from the street. 
About 1820 a Mrs. Martin lived here, and later John Bennett occupied it for many years ; adjoining 
this was a frame house occupied by William Craig, a saddler. 

35 



36 (§Ui MntHBbnr^ 

The brick cottage belonging to William Curley was built by Benjamin Hamilton and was long 
the home of his family. This cottage, with the large brick house on the opposite side of the street, 
belongs to a later period. It was built some time in the "forties," for the Female Seminary which 
came here in the wake of Marshall College. The last person to use it for school purposes was Rev. 
Jacob Hassler. 

Next on the south is a brick house, built about the same time; fomierly the home of Miss Maria 
Kirkwood, Mantua maker and Milliner. 

On the south side of Smith's Run, on the lot belonging to James McAfee stood until about 1880, a 
log, rough cast house, which is known to have been a tavern at a very early time. There has long 
been an impression that this house was the birthplace of Governor Findlay and his distinguished 
brothers, who were born, John in 1766, William in 1768, James in 1770. A Mercersburg Journal of 
i860 says, "the house in which Governor Findlay was born is still standing in the west of town." Wil- 
liam Smith's will (1774) states that his son-in-law Samuel Findlay, dwells on the tenement of land 
which he bequeaths to his son, William Smith. Now this son-in-law Samuel Findlay was the father 
of Governor Findlav, and the tenement of land was this tract on which William Smith, Jr., laid out 
the town of Mercersburg. So this is the only house which satisfies at the same time the impressions of 
old inhabitants, the claims of the Journal and the terms of the will. On the other hand the descendants 
of the present day are inclined to accept what is known as the Findlay Homestead as the birthplace of 
their ancestor. This is a farm near Churchill, where Samuel Findlay lived later and where he died, now 
called the Findlay Stock Farm. The will of William Smith, Sr.,, which supports the claim of the town, 
has but recently been found by the compilers of this sketch in the Records of Cumberland County. Its 
existence was unknown to those who claim the farm for the birthplace. The Records of Franklin 
County show that Samuel Findlay did not purchase this farm until 1785. In addition there is in exis- 
tence a ledger of Samuel Findlay, which shows that he was much more of a storekeeper than farmer 
in those days. This ledger is for the years 1774, 1775. 1776, with accounts carried over from 1768. His 
trade was extensive ; settlers from Welsh Run to Fort Littleton came here to barter and purchase. This 
ledger is also of great interest in that it gives the names of the settlers and the prices of commodities. 
From the same source it is learned that Samuel Findlay was a banker and tanner. He gave lodging 
and meals to both "man and beast," and also sold "toddy, "slings," and "sangarees," taking in payment 
"doubloons," "cut money," "Johannes" and "Joes." It is known that this rough cast house was a tav- 
ern at an early time. That it was the tavern or inn during Squire Smith's time is not beyond cred- 
ence; it was conveniently located for the travel of that day, being on the road which grew out of the 
Warm Spring Trail of the Indians. 

On the founding of the town this property was retained by the heirs of William Smith, who leased 
it to various persons; James Crawford about 1797, Mrs. Dick, James Speer, John Davis and David 
Fegley — the latter in 1826. From an old advertisement it is learned that this tavern bore the name of 
"Washington Inn." 






MAIN STREET IN OLD MERCBRSBURG 



ii^rr^rsburg, ITBfi 



^^^^HE original town plat, now in possession of a descendant of the founder, gives four streets 
/^ I — First or Main; Second, now Fayette; and the two cross streets, now Seminary and Cali- 
I I fomia. The northern boundary of the town was the "Great Road," now known as Oregon 

^^^^ street. The southern limit was the alley crossing Main street at Daniel Hart's ; here town and 
forest met. The west side was a straight line, which formed the western boundary of the 
lots belonging to IMrs. Winters, Dr. Unger and Dr. Brubaker. The land beyond this was part of Rob- 
ert Smith's tract. The triangle at the southern part of town, extending along the turnpike, was added 
later. 

The town was laid out in lots fifty feet wide and 200 feet deep. The first deeds were executed in 
March, 1786. They all recite "This indenture made .... between William Smith, of Montgomery 
township, county of Franklin and state of Pennsylvania, yeoman, and Margret his wife of the one 
part," &c. &c. "That in consideration of the sum of three pounds lawful money of Pennsylvania" they 
have sold a "Lot or piece of Ground situate in the town of Mercersburgh," the lot subject to "the yearly 
rent of ten shillings," to be paid "at the said town of Mercersburg at or upon the twenty-third day of 
March, in every year forever." 

The lots were numbered in a peculiar fashion. Beginning at Centre Square at what is now the 
McKinstry block, you go to the Mercer House, which is No. 4, then you cross the street to the Fres- 
holtz lot (5), continue south to Miss Agnes Rhea's (12), cross the street and go to Mrs. David Mil- 
ler's (16), on the Square, thus encircling the Diamond. Then you start at Ott's (17),, the numbers 
running in order down the east side of Main street and up the west side to Hart's (44), across to Mrs. 
Hummelbaugh's (45), and down to William Boyd's (56). Thence you go to East Seminary street, 
Hege's (57), down the south side and up the north to Ad. Steiger's (72). West Seminary is num- 
bered in the same manner, beginning with Wolfe's (73) to Ernst's (80). The numbers on Fayette 
street begin with Oliver Lightner's (81), down to Philips's (88). and up the other side. Altogether 
there were 132 lots in the original plat. 

flatn S'trrrt, Namrb IFrankUtt 

Beginning at the northwest corner of Main and Oregon streets, it is found that the deed for the 
lot of ground now owned by James McAfee diflfers from the deeds of other lots, in that it cites the 
purchase from James Black by William Smith on the 22d of October, 1759. On this corner lot a twp- 
story brick building was erected by Jacob McFerren. It was known as the Mansion Hotel. This, 
with the old rough cast tavern on the Run, formed one property. Later, the old house was torn away 
and a third story was added to the Mansion Hotel by the McAfees. This building was destroyed by 
fire, and the present dwelling was erected on its site. 

The next house south, now the Kreps property, was owned and occupied by James McMurdie, a 
hatter, and later by Charles Gillespie, who was a copper and tinsmith. 

The Hays property, next door, was a tavern at an early date. Here too, Dr. McGovern lived for a 
number of years. 

Where the Witherspoon home now stands was a large frame house, the residence and hatter's shop 
of Thomas Carson, of whom a sketch is given elsewhere. 

Across the alley where John Rhea and Mrs. Campbell now reside, was the property of Charles 
Gillespie. Where the brick house stands there was a frame building and back of it in the yard there 
stood a small brick house where John Ritchey lived for many years. 

The next lot was vacant for years, but later, some distance back from the street, there was a one- 
stor\- log house, used as a tinshop. Gillespie made copper kettles in the rear of this lot. William Dor- 
rance purchased this lot and built two houses on it. The one he used for his hattershop and the other 

37 



38 (§{h MnaxBhwcQ 

was his dwelling. When Matthew Smith became the owner he joined the two houses by building 
a hall between, thus making one house, now owned by Seth Dickey. 

The Fallon house was owned by a Mr. McFarland, but was subsequently bought and enlarged by 
Joseph Cowan who, with his stepson, Cephas Huston, carried on cabinet making here. In 1858 the 
Mercersburg Savings Fund occupied the basement of this house, which at that time was owned by Thom- 
as Reynolds. The officers of this institution were, Robert Parker, Thomas Carson, and A. J. North. 
In 1856-57 it occupied a room in the stone building on the northeast corner of the "Diamond," and the 
officers were, John McFarland, Hugh Cowan and Perry Rice. Hugh Cowan owned and lived in the 
property next, adjoining the alley. Here he carried on cabinet making. 

The quaint stone house, south of the alley, long the home of Conrad Fresholtz and now the prop- 
erty of his daughters, was built by Colonel Parker and is mentioned in the sketch of him. 

Next to this is the Waidlich property. The house was built by Thomas C. Lane but occupied by 
his brother, Elliott T. Lane. The latter was married to Jane Buchanan, a sister of President Buchanan, 
and here was born Harriet Lane, who presided over the White House during President Buchanan's 
administration. Mrs. Young had her school here for a time; afterwards it was the home of the Dicks 
and Shirts. John Waidlich purchased it in the sixties. 

XA'here the Farmer's Bank now stands was a two-story frame building where Arthur Chambers 
kept store. Later the lower floor was a tailor shop, and on the second floor was the photograph gallery of 
John Seitzinger. The Schoenberger house was the dwelling of Arthur Chambers ; later it was owned 
by James Patton, who kept store here and was followed by Benjamin Kaufman. 

Where the Fallon property now stands, on the northwest corner of the Square, was a two-story 
log house afterwards enlarged and cased with brick. This log building was a tavern in "ye olden 
days." It was kept by Peter Whitesides about 1796. Later bv Solomon Weiser. Afterwards it was 
used as a store room with Joseph Shannon, Patton and Bard, and William Metcalfe as proprietors, 
successively. While William Metcalfe kept this store he had in his employ as store boy, Thomas A. 
Scott, who afterwards became the distinguished president of the Pennsylvania railroad. Thomas Scott 
was a native of Fort Loudon. ■ 

In 1847 J. N. Brewer had his store on this corner, known then as "Locust Corner." I 

The "Old Mansion House" on the the southwest corner of the Square was built by Mr. Sterritt, 
date not known. In 1840 Daniel Shaffer transferred it to Marshall College, and in 1845 t^^ collegt 
sold it to Colonel Murphy. LTnder his management it figures prominently in the annals of that day. 
The house appeared then as shown in the picture, and is described in the deed as a stone house with 
brick stables. Since then the stables have been taken awav and the house much enlarged. In 1864 it 
came into possession of Charles C. Lowe, under whose management it flourished for many years. At his 
death it was purchased by Philip Fendrick. 

The Brewer home was built by Michael Sellers, who was a wagon maker. Before building this 
house he had a one-story log shop on the corner, and a small two-story brick dwelling adjoining, in 
which he lived. When J. N. Brewer moved his store here from "Locust Corner," he was obliged to 
change its name to "Cherry Corner," as this corner was as well shaded by cherry trees as the former 
was by locusts. Indeed, locust, cherry and ailanthus seem to have been the favorite shade trees of that 
period. 

What now is the property of John B. Kreps was formerly a one-story bricl^ building, standing back 
about thirty feet from the street, owned and occupied by John King, familiarly known as "Daddy King." 
He was a blacksmith and had his shop where Miller's jewelry store stands. Andrew L. Coyle bought 
this lot and put up the present building about i860. 

A one-story frame building occupied the lot where the Rhea house stands. James Wilkins, a clock 
and watch maker, had his shop here. It was torn down by Daniel ShaiYer and Colonel Murphy, and 
the present brick house was built and occtipied by them as dwelling and store ; later it was owned by 
David Dunwoody. 

Across the alley stood a large two-story log house occupied by Nicholas Ellis, who had a cooper 
shop adjoining. James Wilkins bought this property and cased it with brick. At present it is owned by 
Dr. Grosh. 

The building next was for many vears the Holman home and saddlery ; previous to that it was 
owned by Daniel Shai?er, whose son-in-law, Andre^v Spangler, later a prominent journalist of Phila- 




MARY CHAMBERS 
Wife of Joseph Van Lear 



mh mmtVBbm^ 39 



delphia, had a book store here in the forties. This is one of the oldest houses in the town. Part ol 
it was standing in 1808. 

The house on the next lot is quite old, originall\- log but now cased with brick. In the yard for- 
merly stood a frame building which was Keyser's hatter shop in the early days when it was said that 
about every sixth house was a hatter's. Afterwards the property was owned and occupied by the 
Misses Ritchey. They sold it to G. G. Rupley about 1856. He lived here during the Civil War. It 
was here that George White, the student referred to by Dr. Schaff in his Diary, had his watch taken 
by the rebel soldiers. Later this became the home of Dr. Negley, who practiced medicine in Mercers- 
burg from 1850 to 1879. It is now the Rankin and Rhodes property. 

On the corner of Main and California streets stands the Rupley home. The present house was 
built in 1850 by Andrew Coyle, who occupied it for a few years. Previous to that the lot had on it 
only a small log house on the north side. The property belonged to the Barnthiesels, but was occupied 
by one, Winebrenner, a tailor. Hugh McConnell at one time operated a pottery on this lot. 

The lot on which the dwelling house of George Grove stands was occupied by a two-story log 
house. Frederick Geyer, a chair maker, lived here. It afterwards came into possession of William 
McKinstry and was long tenanted by Robert Parker, also a chair maker, painter and paperhanger. 

The next building south was an inn of the old type. It had a large spread eagle for a sign and 
was probably built by Henry Spangler, who was a wagon maker, and also kept tavern here from 179 — 
until his death in 1837. After that his widow conducted the inn, and her son succeeding her, occupied 
the premises for many years. Later, the place was purchased by John Klee, whose family still live 
there. 

The adjoining lot was the innyard. Flagged with stone, with a great gate opening on Main 
street, it remained a relic of the old tavern days until about 1885. 

Where McClean Rhea lives stood a low log house and cooper shop, owned by James Bennet, a 
cooper and a veteran of the War of 1812. It was here the incident occurred concerning Mr. Bennet 
which is related by Mr. Flarbaugh in "Mercersburg in War Times." 

Across the alley stood the two-story brick house now owned by Mrs. McClellan. This, with a 
small one in the same yard, was built by Henry Hart, a blacksmith. It was afterwards owned by Miss 
Jane Milligan. Her niece. Belle Milligan, had a s-iect school in the small brick building, now torn 
down. 

On the site of Mrs. Wesley Fallon's house was an old frame building. The present one was 
erected by Harmon Hause. The stones used in it were taken from the old stone academy. 

The last house on that side of the street was the dwelling which now belongs to James Boyd. It 
was in early days a two-story log house built by John Hart and his blacksmith shop adjoined. 

The land south of this point, on what is now called the Avenue, was woods until Marshall College 
purchased it and the "Preparatory" was built, together with the residence occupied successively by Dr. 
Nevin and Dr. Appel. Prof. Budd designed the lawn and gardens. On the lawn was a large circle of 
boxwood, in the centre of which stood a fir tree. In the garden in the rear were box alleys resembling 
the formal English gardens of that period. Beyond this were the two beautiful Society Halls. The 
residence, now owned by Mrs. Rankin, still serves as a dwelling, but the other buildings have given 
place to homes for the growing population of the town. 

Crossing the street from Hart's, on the comer is the brick house belonging to Mrs. Hummei- 
baugh, built in 1825 by John Myers, a tailor. He occupied it for many years as residence and tailor 
shop. Then it was bought by Mrs. Murray. Bv her will it was devoted as the parsonage of the United 
Presbyterian denomination. Immediately north there was a vacant lot and next to it a one-story log 
house with a wagon maker's shop attached. These properties were owned by James McCyine, who lived 
here and carried on wagon making. The present house of D. F. Metcalfe was built by William Cook. 

On the corner of the allev was a one-ston' leg house, owned by John Thompson. The lot north 
of the allev. now the Town Lot, had on it a small brick house, last occupied by Dick Collins. The town 
paper of March, 1848, advertised for a site on wlrch to erect an engine house, lockup and other build- 
ings ; it must, therefore, have been soon after that this lot became the property of the town. The 
band house stood on the northwest corner. Afterwards it was removed to its present site. During 
the war so many members of the band enlisted that the organization was disbanded and John Seit- 
zinger used the building for his photograph gallerv. 



40 (§Ui MmttBhnt^ 



Next to the Town Lot was a log and frame biu.ding, also owned by John Thompson, now the prop- 
erty of Charles Grove. There was a tavern kept here about 1820. Afterwards it was occupied by one 
Stapleton, who was a cabinet maker by trade. He also had a local reputation as a fine singer. Later it 
was the home of John Grove. 

The house adjoining this was a two-story log building, afterwards cased with brick. This was 
owned by Jacob McCune, a weaver. Later he kept a boarding house for students of Marshall College. 
The Journal of 1850 says. "Dr. Scott has rooms in the house of Jacob JNIcCune, one door south of 
Mrs. Sohn's." 

The lot at the southeast corner of ALiin and California streets was for a long time a garden, until 
Harry Spangler built the present brick house, between 1820 and 1825. He later rented it, and finally 
sold it to Frederick Waidlick, who enlarged it. 

Across California street on the northeast corner is a brick house built by a Mr. Shannon. Hi"- 
widow occupied this house in 1818 or 1820. Then it was bought by Captain William Dick, who en- 
larged it. Captain Dick carried on butchering here until about 1845. His slaughter house was at the 
rear of his lot on East California street. He and his brother were engaged in business here for many 
years, being also distillers. Mrs. Horner became the owner after Captain Dick moved West. 

On the next lot was a two-story log house, later cased with brick, the property of John Thompson, 
who was the father-in-law of Captain Dick. The small frame building on the same lot was used as a 
shop, a tailor, saddler, barber, and shoemaker occi'pying it at different times. This all came into pos- 
session of Mrs. Thompson's niece, Nancy McDonough, who married Stuart Sharp and lived here 
many years. 

The next property north of this included two lots. The house was a two-story stone one, owned 
and occupied by Dr. Magaw, whose history is given elsewhere. It was here that Dr. Ranch lived and 
died. Dr. John McDowell afterwards bought the property and built additions to it. He also built the 
frame shops that stood where William Boyd's new house stands. The south end of this stone house 
was sold to Captain Cushwa, and the rest of the property to the Reformed church for a parsonage. It 
was used for that purpose until the present parsonage was btiilt next to the church. 

North of the alley on the corner, Mathias Barnthiesek a tailor, had his shop and later a small gro- 
cery store. He lived in the adjoining stone house. This afterwards became the Palsgrove home. 

Between this stone house and the one on the corner were three small log houses. The first was one- 
story, and here Molly Farval sold ginger cakes and small beer. Afterwards a Mrs. Rinkard lived here, 
and then came "Billy" McCune, with "cakes and clear toys, flour and feed." Later, Dr. Neglev had 
his office here for many years. 

The one adjoining was also used as a shop. "Billy" Eckman dispensed cake and candy from its 
counter, while between times he made and mended shoes. The last to occupv this place' was John 
Snyder, a tinner. The third one, a shop, was rented to persons of various occupations. These are 
now replaced by the National Bank and stores of today. 

The large stone house on the corner is known best as the D. M. B. Shannon propertv. The orig- 
mal owner of the lot was John Darby. John Wolfe bought it in 1795 and sold it in 181 1 for $1,300. 
In 1815 the price paid for it by Jacob Shaffer was $3,000. Later, it was owned bv Thomas Reynolds, 
then by Robert McCoy. In 1856 it came into possession of D. M. B. Shannon, whose residence and 
store It was for many years. It is now the propertv of Dr. John Kuhn. 

On the next lot, now the Miller propertv, was a two-storv frame building, erected by William 
Shannon, between the years 1821 and 1827. This was occupied for manv vears bv G. G. Ruplev and 
John Hoch. The original owner of this propertv, which includes the Miller residence on the corner, 
was .^chibald Irwin. "Archibald Irwin and Jane,, his wife" (great-grandparents of President Harrison) 
sold it in 1797. In 1802 it came into possession of William Guthrie, a silversmith and clock maker, 
and also postmaster for a time. James Wilkins, whose reputation as a clock maker is so well known 
in this section, and whose clocks are now much in demand, learned his trade with Guthrie. After Wil- 
lani </i'thne's death the property was bought bv William Shannon, who was a hatter. Afterwards Wil- 
liam McKinstry became the owner and it was tenanted bv the following persons in succession : William 
!,^^-,^u-„- "^''' George Kirby. a saddler; Thomas ]\Iorton, who kept a restaurant: Augustus Rexroth 
and Phillip Fendrick. The original house was of logs. 

Across Seminary street on the northeast comer of the Square, there was a two-story brick build- 



COLOXKL JOHX MURPHY 

Proprietor of the Mansion House, 
1845-1864 





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THE OLD MANSION HOUSE 
From a Time-worn Picture 



ing, built by Jacob Geyer early in 1800, and occupied by him as residence and tobacconist shop until his 
death, about 1822. Dr. Scott and his sister Margaret lived here for several years. On the second 
floor of this house was a Masonic lodge. In 1842 William McKinstry bought this Geyer home, tore it 
down and erected the present large three-story building. 

The next house, the stone one on the corner, was built by William McKinstry, early in 1800, 
and was occupied by him as residence and general store. Afterwards the owners of the various suc- 
cessive stores in it were J. O. Carson, Robert and John Dick, John Shirts, and others. 

Across the alley in early days there was a large two-story log building. In 1814 Jeremiah Evans 
kept store here. Later it was owned and occupied by Thomas and Elliott Lane, merchants. In 1824 
Thomas Lane left his brother Elliott in business here and went to Carlisle. Elliott discontinued mer- 
chandising about 1830. Some years later this log building, with another directly north of it, was 
destroyed by fire. At that time Alexander Sellers kept a store here. The lot was bought by James O. 
Carson, who built the present brick house, now owned by Adam Steiger. 

The property next, now the Mercer House, was the Buchanan residence. The original owner of 
the lot was William Kendall who, in 1790, sold it to Phillip Embigh for thirty-five pounds specie. By 
1795 the price had advanced to seventy-five pounds and the purchaser was Thomas Sloan. There was 
probably a log house on it at this time, to account for the difference in price. In 1796 James Buchanan, 
Sr., bought the place and erected a large and handsome brick dwelling. This was the Buchanan home, 
where the future President spent his youth. Later. James O. Carson owned and occupied it. It has 
since been enlarged and converted into the hotel bearing the name of the Mercer House. 

North of the alley is a stone and log house. It was owned bv a Dr. Long some time about 1820. 
After his death it was used for many years as a store room and residence. At one time a Mrs. Mad- 
den kept school here. A notice in the Visitor of 1843 refers to this house : "The Ladies of the Presby- 
terian Church and Repairing Missionary Society will hold a sale of useful and fancy articles, on Christ- 
mas day at 10 o'clock at the house south of Robert King. Esq., formerly occupied by Messrs. Resser & 
Roberts as a Saddler Shop. There will be a warm dinner served at i o'clock. Admittance 6J4-" 
The house was bought by Samuel Palsgrove, who rented it. The postoffice was kept here for many 
years by Mrs. Perry Rice. 

The Schnebly property was originally owned by Robert King, brother of Dr. King of Revolution- 
ary note. Afterwards by his son. Dr. John King, who practiced medicine here for many years. 

The stone house next door belonged to Elliott Lane, who lived here before he moved into the 
Waidlich house. It was then bought by the Misses Reynolds, a family of seven sisters. Later it be- 
longed to John Humphreys, John Orth and Colonel Ritchey. 

The Steiger property, next, was built by Jacob Hassler, a carpenter. Mr. Hassler sold the place 
to Mrs. Marris. Afterwards it was bought by William Waddell. 

Across the alley was a log house and frame shop, owned and occupied by John Hoagland. The 
house was afterwards cased with brick and a rear extension built. This house was rented and frequently 
changed tenants. Mrs. Louisa Hofifiditz purchased it and lived here many years ; now it belongs to 
James Agnew. 

South of this is the Creigh home. This property has changed owners a remarkably small num- 
ber of times. The first owner, in 1786, was Archibald Irwin, who sold it to Jacob Bahn, Sr., in 1791 
for eighteen pounds. The present house was built some time after this by Jacob Bahn, who kept tavern 
here. After his death his widow and children continued in the business until 1826, when they sold to 
John H. Murphy, who, in 1836, sold it to Rev. Thomas Creigh, in whose family it still remains. This 
tavern was the centre of fashion in the early days. It was equipped with a ball room in which the people 
gathered to hold their dances in the days of Dr. King. This ball room was in reality two rooms, sepa- 
rated by a ver}' large door made in one piece and so constructed that it swung upward, where it hung 
suspended from a hook in the ceiling. Around the large room thus formed the old people were seated to 
watch the young dance "Up the middle and down again." Dr. King himself lent his presence on these 
occasions. This was before the Presbytery had taken its stand in opposition to dancing. 

Immediately north of this is the Waddell property. The first owner was James Kirkpatrick, who 
sold it in 1789 as house and lot for 125 pounds. Soon after the War of 1812 it was sold for 235 pounds. 
It changed owners frequently, but the house remained the same as in 1789. It was occupied for a time 



by Captain James McDonald. Rev. James Bruce lived here in Civil War days ; since then it has been 
the home of Thomas VVaddel), lately deceased. 

The stone house on the corner is the "Neat and Commodious house of a middling Size," for the 
building of which William Smith, Jr., left directions in his will. This was the home of his widow and 
daughter Sally. As it stands now it has been enlarged and remodeled by its present owner. Christian 
F. Fendrick. 

Turning the corner into Oregon street, the ground on the south side, extending to Fayette, was the 
garden and orchard of the Smiths. The pleasant homes which now occupy it are of a date too recent to 
come within the limits of this sketch. 

The lot on the northeast corner of Oregon street was a garden for a long time. In the middle of 
this lot there stood a log building in which potash was made in the early years of 1800. Afterwards, 
blacksmith and wagon maker's shops stood here. Leonard Lackove and Jacob Reisner owned them and 
conducted their business here successfully for many years. It is now the Witter property. 

The ground on which Spangler"s Row stands remained in possession of the Smith heirs (the 
Brownsons) for many years. On it stood a log barn \vhich is probably the one William Smith mentions 
in his will as being near the lot on which his house was to be built. 

East of this was a one-story log house, in which Robert Espy taught school. Books in those days 
were not in general use. Mr. McKinstry, in his Reminiscences says. "It was the first school I ever at- 
tended. I recollect that I had the alphabet pasted on a paddle and had no trouble turning over leaves." 

East of this is what was long known as the Peter Cook property. Here the widow of Mr. Cook, 
with Miss Catron and Miss Mary McDowell, lived for years. A former owner was a Mrs. Stover, 
familiarly called "Granny." 

The Spangler property has long been known as the Hoke property. Michael Hoke bought it from 
the Smiths, and he and his son Adam operated a tanyard here for many years. 

The property belonging to William Brubaker was owned at various times by the Culbersons, Hus- 
tons, McCoys, and Atchison Ritchey. It is described in a deed as "Part of a tract of land granted by 
the State to Dr. William Magaw, bounded on the north by Smith's Run, on the south bv the Warm 
Spring Road, being the great road leading from Mercersburg to Chambersburg," etc. 

On the Tobias Martin place was a frame house built by Edward Burns, a pump maker. After- 
wards it became the property of Thomas and James Grubb, who had a whiskey distillery here, back 
of the barn. The present brick building was built by Tobias Martin, who lived in it. Michael Cromer 
occupied part of the dwelling for many years. 

The location now occupied by Byron's tanyard was then a meadow. Beyond that, near the Doc- 
tor Spring, stands a plastered house. This was a tavern in the olden davs when the Warm Spring Road 
was the Great Road. 

The railroad station stands on the Magaw tract. In front of the grain elevator there was a brick- 
yard in 1847. On the corner of Oregon and Fayette streets was a kiln for making crocks, the potter 
being a colored man called "Blue Dave." Jacob Hassler bought this lot and erected the brick dwelling 
now on it. George Shepler then purchased it. In 1852 Samuel Cromer had a machine shop in one 
part. The whole now belongs to Joseph Phillips. 

3ffaHPttp S'trppt. ^tuptt aa 2;alfai}pttp in g'nmp ippfta 

The lot adjoining Phillips' on the east side of Fayette street was the joint property of the Re- 
fonried and Lutheran churches. The United Brethren congregation purchased it in recent years, de- 
molished the old stone church and erected a frame one in its place. The graveyard at the rear is still 
the property of the Reformed church. 

The next property south belonged to William Metcalfe, familiarly called "Billv." He was carpenter 
and constable. The first Reformed and Lutheran church, which was log, was removed to this lot when 
the stone church was erected. This log building was torn down later and the present brick house built 
by Christian Haulman, auctioneer. 

The brick cottage next, since enlarged bv John Hoch, was built bv George G. Ruplev, in 1845. 
It was owned by John Hawbaker for nianv years. 

Adjoining this is the house which belonged to Eliza Linton, who conducted a clubhouse for stu- 



dents in the days of Marshall College. Dr. Porter lived here in his early married days. Afterwards 
Henry Keller owned it. There is an amusing incident told in connection with this house when Keller 
occupied it. He made sleigh baskets out of round white oak splits. Captain John Geyer ordered a 
very large one, with three seats, to be used on his stage line in winter. Keller made the basket in his 
cellar, but when it was finished he found it too large for the doorway. The cellar doors were taken 
off, the frame around the doorway torn down, and then with the united help of the neighbors it was 
jammed through the opening and brought up to the street. The sleigh was none the worse for its 
experience owing to the good, honest workmanship on it. 

Across the alley stands one of the early houses of the town. It was owned at one time by 

Gaff, who lived here. After passing through many hands, after the Civil War it was owned and occu- 
pied bv Robert Small, and after his death by his widow, Rebecca Small. 

The next, a brick cottage, belonged to Daniel Shaffer. It was from this place that Mr. Shaffer was 
taken by the Confederates. 

On the allev stands what has long been known as the Lightner home. On the next lot stood the 
blacksmith shop'of Robert Cooper, Sr., also the cooper shop of Michael Kreps. Martin Ritter, who was 
a locksmith and whitesmith, had his shop here, and, still later, James Black had his shoemaker's shop 
here. 

Crossing Seminary street, the Thomas Reed house formerly belonged to George Reitzel. In 1844 
there was a butcher shop on this lot, and Thomas Horton, proprietor, advertises in the Mercersburg Visi- 
tor that he will "sell beef at 5, 4^^, & 3 cts. per pound by the small or in quantity." The small plas- 
tered house on the southeast corner of the alley was the home of Mrs. Sally Metcalfe. Next, is a dou- 
ble brick house built by Hugh McConnell. The south end of this was for many years the residence of 
the pastors of the Methodist church. 

James Buchanan, Sr., was the first owner of the lot on the corner of Fayette and California streets. 
The "property came into the possession of Cornelius Louderbach, who lived here and had his carriage 
manufactory' in the rear, facing California street. It was afterwards purchased by Jacob Stouffer, who 
was engaged in the same business. His son David succeeded him, but in recent years the latter has 
changed his residence to the Avenue. 

Across California street, on the corner was a low brick house long known as the Grawl home. Be- 
fore that "Billy" Eckman, a left-handed shoemaker, lived here. The house is now replaced by a new 
one, which was built bv Mrs. Highland. 

The small brick house, next, was the home of Michael Kreps, while the house above was the property 
of Peter Clark. 

The brick house on the northeast corner of the alley, now owned by Mrs. Rockwell, was the home of 
Henry Hospelhorn. The man who used the same lamp chimney for seventeen years and then ex- 
changed it because the burner was worn out. 

Bishop Rockwell's house, across the alley, formerly belonged to Miss Rebecca Armstrong. Be- 
vond this point the street was mainly occupied by the colored people. Here lived Aunt Sally Stoner 
and her daughter. Aunt Mat, whose heartv laugh is remembered by many, was for years a favorite 
laundress of the college students, as well as the towns people. Where Aunt Susie Burgess now lives 
stood a log house. Here Davy Johnson lived, of whom Dr. Tlieodorc Appel,_in College Recollections, 
says he was "as black as if he had just come from Guinea, was the personification of meekness, honesty, 
and piety. He made the beds of the students, carried up their wood in a rack and occasionally sub- 
mitted to a practical joke." 

On the corner of the next allev lived Uncle Aleck Watson. In his young days TJncle Aleck, or 
"Caesar" as he was frequently called, was a butcher six days in the week, on the seventh he was 
preacher and exhorter in the African church on the west side of town. In later years he gave up 
butchering but continued preaching. 

Across the alley, on the lot now vacant, stood a log cabin in which lived Uncle Jim Ramsey and 
his wife Aunt Betsev. Jim lived to be about the last of the old-time waggoners, who "waggoned" from 
Baltimore to Pittsburgh. ]\Iany were the tales of his adventures on the road and his marvellous skill in 
driving. It was a custom among the waggoners ; when a team got in a rut and needed aid, that the 
teamster coming to its assistance was entitled to its bells. According to Jim's account he captured 
bells on everv trip, but never lost one; and the young folks who sat around him, listening in breath- 



44 (§Ui MnnvBhut^ 

less silence always wondered what had become of all his prizes. Jim had belonged to the Findlays and 
in his old age was supported by a descendant of this family— Mrs. Rice. Betsy had been a refugee 
slave in her youth and lived in deadly terror of being captured all through the years of the Civil War. 

The first house was a log one, now torn down. Next, was the stone house still standing. This 
belonged to Miss Peggy and Miss Sarah Cooper, who had the first and, for a long while, the only ice 
cream parlor in the town. In the forties this luxury was for sale on warm Saturday nights. Here the 
rank and fashion of the town could be found, and here the children of that day usually spent their Sat- 
urday night "fippenny bits." The cow that furnished the cream was "Blue Mooly," a highly favored 
and important animal. 

On the north corner of the alley stood a small log house which passed through many hands until, 
in 1844, it became the property of Nancy Ring, known as "Granny" Ring. Later, the property of Dr. 
Creigh, now of Mrs. St. Clair, who replaced it with a modern dwelling. 

The large brick barn, now belonging to Andrew Schnebly, was the property of Robert King. It 
was in this barn the wounded Confederates lay after the battle of Gettysburg. One of them died here 
and was buried in the Presbyterian graveyard. The body was later removed to Fairview cemetery, 
along with two others. 

The brick house belonging to Miss Geyer was built by Squire McKinstry ; previous to this a log 
one stood here. On the northwest corner of Fayette and California streets, where Peter Wolfe's 
store and residence stand, formerly stood a frame house, the property of Smith Geyer. On the opposite 
corner stands the home of Captain John Geyer, who kept a large livery stable. He also ran the stage 
lines to Greencastle and Chambersburg. 

On the next lot is a brick house, long the residence of George McCleary. Beside it is the Seibert 
home. William Waidlich's place was the property of Brewer McCune as far back as can be learned, 
while across the alley the Myers house was for many years the home of Solomon Weiser, sale crier. 
Later, John Shatzer owned it. 

In the brick house above lived John Crilly, the school teacher, and above that stands the old 
home of George Myers. 

Next to this is the log house which is conceded to be the house in which James Buchanan, the 
fifteenth President of the United States, was born. It was removed from "Stony Batter" to its present 
site by Jacob McCune, a weaver, who used it for his workshop. Later, in 1843, Nicholas Shultz used 
it for the same purpose. 

lEast i'^minarg §>trwt 

On the north side, adjoining the McKinstry block, stands the large three-storv brick residence 
which William McKinstry, Sr., built and occupied. It is still in the possession of his family. 

The next house, in the days of Marshall College, was owned bv Mrs. Good, who here kept a 
boarding house for the students of that institution ; later it became the residence of Mrs. Troupe. It is 
now the property of Adam Steiger. 

The quaint little house next, was the store of Jonathan Good, who sold books and stationery. He 
was a draughtsman of no mean ability and something of a musician. He enlisted in the army and was 
never heard of afterwards. He and his sister Margaret lived together and his disappearance affected 
her mind to such an extent, that for years after the war was over she watched hourly for his return, 
and always kept a place laid for him at table. 

East of this was another small house, and adjoining it is the Wilkins house. It was built by 
Frederick Smith and called the "Balcony House," being the only house at that period so lavishly pro- 
vided with porches. Jonathan Goods' advertisement in the Journal, 1852, is "J. J. Good, book-merchant 
and binder, two doors west of Mr. Smith's new house." The little log house on the corner is verv old 
and formerly belonged to the Smith property, but later to Robert Cooper, who kept a little store here. 

On the opposite corner is the Methodist church. The house next was a boarding house in the 
time of Marshall College. Later, Mrs. Simpson resided here for many years. The adjoining house, 



now the property of Mrs. Daniel McCleary, as well as the next, belonging to Mrs. McCune, were board- 
ing houses for Alarshall students. 

Here was the east limit of the town. Beyond was the Magaw tract. On this tract the Reformed 
church was built in 1845. The Theological Seminary building which gives the street its name, was 
erected in 1836. It serves now as the main hall of the Mercersburg Academy. 

North Cottage, now the residence of Dr. William M. Irvine, was first occupied by Dr. Phillip 
SchafT, followed by Dr. E. E. Higbee and Dr. Auginbaugh. South Cottage, now a dormitory, was 
the home successively of Dr. Wolfe, Prof. William Nevin, Dr. Theodore Appel, Dr. Henry Har- 
baugh. Prof. Jacob Kershner and Dr. William Deatrick. 

On the south side of East Seminary street, on lot 64, is one of the old houses of the town. This 
was owned and occupied by Miss Jane Brown. 

The original owners of the lot of Andrew Myers and the one adjoining belonging to Wade Shaf- 
fer, were David and John Wray. On the Shaffer lot was a small house in which Robert Espy at one 
time taught school. It was later the home of Mrs. Briggs. 

The house on the corner, now belonging to Mrs. Isaiah Brewer, is said to be the third house which 
was built in the town. It is built of logs and was formerly rough cast and faced on Fayette street. 
It has been known as the Fallon, Dorrance, and the Talhelm house, according to its owners. Isaiah 
Brewer changed the entrance to Seminary street, when he practically rebuilt the house. 

Across the street stood and still stands the Hugh McConnell residence and potter^-. It is now 
the property of M. J. Slick. 

On the next lot stands another of the old houses of the town, now owned by Felix Diffenderfer. 
The original owner of this lot was Michael Fallon, Sr., who built the house and lived here, having his 
weaver's shop in the basement. 

The brick house adjoining, now the Methodist parsonage, was built by "Squire" McKinstry. In 
the fifties. Miss Kate Hooper taught school here. 

The two brick houses on the next lot, now the property of Mrs. David Miller, were also built 
by "Squire" McKinstry. John Hyssong lived here for many years. 

Across the alley, on the lot which Gilbert Rupley now owns, there stood in early times a frame 
and log coach and smith shop. These gave place to two brick houses. The smaller one next the alley 
was built by Michael Fallon, who occupied it for a time. Later, Miss Rachel Lemison and her niece 
lived here. This house was torn down by the present owner. The other house was built by "Squire" 
McKinstry. 

Crossing the Square to the south side, lot 80 is now the Ernst property. Marshall Wilkins and 
his sister Mollie lived here at one time, and also Adam McAllister. The Hoeflich restaurant was on 
the corner. 

The Grosh property adjoining was originally in possession of David Humphreys. The original 
owner of the next lot was George McAllan. ' This was long the home of Robert Parker and his sons 
Thompson and Oliver; it is now owned by Mrs. Lininger. 

The original owner of the next lot, now belonging to Dr. D. F. Unger, was James Douglas. 
This lot, in 1840, was transferred to Marshall College to secure it against loss. In 1845 the college 
disposed of it to John Murphy, who sold it to the School Board. This lot marks the limit of the old 
town. Adjoining this is the Robert Smith tract, on which stands the Presbyterian church. 

Across Park street, on the corner, stands the large brick house built by Dr. Little and long 
known by the name of "Little's Folly." It later became'the residence of Cornelius Louderbaugh, the 
carriage manufacturer, and is still occupied by his family. The first deed for this property says it is 
on the "Great Road," just as the deed for the Brubaker property on Oregon street says it is bounded 
bv the "Great Road." 

West of this property was the brickyard. It was here that the Confederate soldier was buried 
along with his horse, but the excitement abating, the following day the body was disinterred and given 
proper burial in the Presbyterian churchyard. Beyond this is the Methodist graveyard. 

On the north side of West Seminary street is Jolm Eckert's property. This was owned at dif- 
ferent times by M. Fallon, John Shrader, and John Eckert, Sr. 



46 Wih MmnBbnr^ 

The brick house on the corner of Park street was built by Jacob Hollar, who also built the brick 
row in Park street. This was between the years 1836-42. 

On the north end of Park street is the George Wolfe property. This was a tanyard at a very 
earlv date. Opposite this, on the "Point;' on the east side of Park street, stood the first Methodist 

church, a small log building. .„, . , , jT-j,r j t^i- 

Returning to West Seminary street, opposite the Presbyterian church stood Leidy s foundry. This 
place passed through the hands of various owners,— White, Shaffer, McKinstry and now Etter. 

The next house belonged to Jacob White. James Williamson and Conrad Sohn, clock maker, 
lived here for a time. Later it was owned and occupied by John Hoch, who sold ice cream and lemon- 
ade here, as well as at his shoemaking place on the Square. 

On the next lot Mrs. Wray had a Dame's School at a very early time. Here Robert Parker had 
his chair shop for many years, and ]\Iarshall Wilkins also had his cabinet shop. The latter was espe- 
cially skilful in the fitting of the little secret drawers required in the best furniture of that period. 
Later, this became the Beck home and is now a public hall. 

The next house on the alley is an old one which frequently changed tenants. Here Mrs. Albert 
sold pretzels and yeast. 

WtBt fflalifarttta g'trtpt 

About where William Long's new house stands there stood in earlier times a house that was built 
in a day. It was the home of Rebecca and Esther Ellis. Their father, Nicholas Ellis, had at one time 
been in comfortable circumstances, but these girls became poor and were obliged to move here into a 
house which thev still owned, but which was not fit for a dwelling. The men of the town set a day 
on which they all gathered together at sunrise, demolished the old house, built a new one, and finished 
it by night. The Ellis girls plaited straw hats and bonnets, made lace, and knitted fringe. Esther had 
the distinction of being a frequent visitor to the White House. Both the Buchanan and the Lane 
families had been among her patrons here. She was very eccentric and would roam the countryside 
for miles around. When Buchanan became President and Harriet Lane was installed as mistress of 
the White House, Esther concluded to extend her journeyings and visit her old acquaintances. This 
she did, walking the whole way, and that she was kindly received is shown by the fact that she repeated 
her visit more than once, always going the same way. Below the Ellis home stood the log house of 
Arnold Brooks (colored). Next was the old stone academy. 

On the south side of the street, where George Annstrong now lives, was a log house, the home 
of Jacob Bezan (colored). This was the first house built on this street, and for a time it figured as a 
station of the Underground Railroad. Jacob was a small darkv and had a son George who was as 
large as his father was small. When information was received that .slaves were on the route, Jacob 
watched for them while George kept guard at the house. On one occasion this order was reversed and 
George was .stationed at the foot of the garden to meet the refugees. Soon three darkies appeared 
coming out of the cornfield. When they saw George was not the little man who was to meet them, 
they retreated into the field, George called and after some persuasion they reluctantly made their sec- 
ond appearance. He took them into the house to his father. They were fed and then hidden in the 
loft. Here they lay that night and all the next day. The next night George piloted them across the 
brickyard, over the run, across the turnpike, following the mountains northward, starting them on their 
way to the next station. In the early morning George returned. Later in the dav, the constable ap- 
peared to search the house. 

Lots 126 and 127 included a graveyard which belonged to the Lutheran congregation. Burials here 
were discontinued after Fairview Cemetery was opened. The bodies were rernoved manv years ago. 
Next to this stands the brick cottage which belonged to Miss Lydia Spangler. 

QIljp alurnptkp 

Lots 131 and 132 were the property of the Seceder church. The church stood on the lot now owned 
by Mrs. Bristor. It was under this church that the rifles belonging to the town were concealed dur- 
ing the Confederate raids. Miss Sallie McCracken lived in the'sexton's cottage, now owned by Atchi- 
son Divilbiss. The graveyard belonging to this congregation was on the rear of these two lots. The 




A GLIMPSE OF THE BEAUTIFUL WOODWORK IX THE HOUSE BUILT BY COLONEL ROBERT 

PARKER ABOUT 17SS. THE BALCOXV HOUSE. AX OLD DOOR-WAY. FAIRVIEW 

CEMETERY. THE TOLL-GATE AT XORTH EXD OF TOWN. 



bodies have been removed to other burial grounds. The stone church which this congregation erected 
stood on the "Point"' now occupied by the residence of WilHam Smith. 

The lots now owned by Calvin Wilson and Miss Harriet Scully were purchased from Mrs. Brown- 
son by Henry Scully, who sold part to John Wilson. These two men built what have always re- 
mained the Wilson and Scully homes. 

The next house on the "Point," now the property of Mrs. Taylor, was the Harbaugh home for 
many years. Mrs. Harbaugh purchased it from Harmon Hause, who lived there at one time. During 
the war Leonard Leidy lived here and it was in this house one of the Confederate soldiers died. He 
was buried in the Methodist graveyard and since has been removed to Fairview Cemetery. 

Across Fayette street, on the corner, stands what was for many years the Skinner home. The 
whole hill was called Skinner's, after the owner, Captain Skinner. On the rear of this lot, facing Fay- 
ette street, stands the foundry which the Skinners operated; later it was run by Samuel Cromer and 

John Seyler. At an early date this property was owned by Welker. It now belongs to Mrs. 

Brubaker. 

On the crest of the hill stood the house which was built and occupied by Harmon Hause. Re- 
cently this was moved some distance south of its first location bv H. W. Byron, who erected his resi- 
dence on this site. 

In the northern end of town, the first house beyond the Race was the home and shop of Nicholas 
Shultz, weaver, who made carpets and coverlets. The latter, with the names of both weaver and 
owner woven in are now much prized. 

Across from this, on the east side of Main street, stands the residence which was built and occu- 
pied by John Orth, and now belongs to Miss Lesher. 

On the west side is the brick house built by Leonard Lackove and still occupied by his family. 
Adjoining it is the Bennett home. The property next, at one time belonged to John Orth. 

The house now owned and occupied by Hayes McClellan was built by Jacob Reisner, who lived 
here until his death. The Witherspoon residence was built by Samuel Johnson. For many years it 
was the home of David Agnew. 

Beyond this is the tollgate, which the Turnpike Company placed as the northern limit of the town. 

As this account is confined to the limits of the original town plan, it necessarily omits the Avenue, 
Church street. Park street extension, and the town beyond the tollgate, as well as the many modern 
homes and business houses throughout the old town. 




i'rifnnb 



4^Mv'H£ people of Mercersburg have ever been wont to pride themselves on their love of educa- 
'/■^ I tion. There is just cause for this for as early as 1762 we find that the first classical school 
I 1 within the bounds of this county was established in the Conococh. igue settlement. The 

^^J^ teacher, Mr. John King — afterward Rev. John King— gives this brief account of it : ''After 
this, my father not judging that he could bear the expense of sending me to college imme- 
diately, I came to West Conococheague in Cumberland county, where I spent almost three years in 
teachi'ng school, during which time I instructed some boys in the Latin language. The Indian war 
increasing in 1763, mv sister that lived there being killed by the Indians and the school declining, I 
quitted this )iart and returned to Little Britain, Lancaster Co." This school-house, built of logs, was 
sitauted near the first church, known as Steele's meeting house or fort, at Churchill, and when Dr. 
King returned here later as the pastor he seems to have continued the school. This Latin school had 
a high reputation in the community. 

After Mercersburg was founded there is little definite information in regard to schools, but 
evervthirig seems to center in the "Old Stone Academy." When and by whom this was built is not 
known. The oldest inhabitants of today remember it in their youth and recall that their parents spoke 
of it as the old Stone Academy, so it would seem to have always been old. The building was a two- 
story stone structure, and stood on the grounds of the Presbyterian church, near where the parsonage 
now stands. Ex-President James Buchanan, in his autobiography, gives the following: "After hav- 
ing received a tolerably good English education, I studied the Latin and Greek language at a school in 
Mercersburg. It was kept by the Rev. James K. Sharon, then a student of divinity with Dr. John 
King and afterward by a Mr. McConnell and Dr. Jesse Magaw, then a student of medicine." As Mr. 
Buchanan entered Dickinson College in 1807, it must have been before that date he attended school in 
the old stone academy. The earliest school-house used for what is termed the "common school" system, 
was a one-story brick building, also on the Presbyterian grounds. It stood facing Park street, almost 
exactlv opposite the present blacksmith shop. This house was built by general subscription, the Pres- 
byterian congregation giving the use of their grounds on condition that they be permitted to store their 
fire wood in the cellar. Some of the teachers of this school were Samuel Bradley, Jacob Hassler, James 
Williamson, John D. Crilly and Miss Sarah Andrews. The basement of the Methodist church was 
used at various times for school purposes. As early as 1841 it was kept by a Mrs. Harris and her 
daughter, later by John D. Crilly and others. 

The one-story, two-roomed school-house, on what is now Dr. LTnger's lot, was built by the Mer- 
cersburg Independent School District for the primary schools. In 1862 Goethean Hall was purchased 
for the more advanced grades. The schools rested here until 1878, when they made their final move 
into their present home on West Seminary street. 

The old Stone Academy in its decrepit age opened its doors to yet another school and 
became the first home in Mercersburg of what afterwards became IMarshall College. It was 
regarded as a stroke of genius that the Rev. Jacob Mayer, pastor of the Reformed congrega- 
tion, conceived the idea in 1834 of having the High School and Theological Seminary of that 
denomination, which were then located at York, removed to Mercersburg. This place was then 
a town of less than a thousand inhabitants largely of Scotch-Irish descent, belonging to sev- 
eral branches of the Presbyterian church. The West Conococheague had been settled by the 
Scotch-Irish originally, the agents of the Proprietors being instructed to induce the Scotch-Irish to 
locate in the Kittochtinny valley, while the German immigrants were sent to York county, thereby 
hoping to avoid the troubles that had been experienced in some of the eastern counties. It was not 
long, however, until the Germans appeared in this valley, as is shown by the census -^i 1790. By 
1834 there were both Reformed and Lutheran congregations of strength and influence in this town. 
In bringing the High School and Seminary here, not only the Reformed church, but Secedcrs, Presby- 
teriafis', Lutherans and Methodists were equally enthusiastic. A subscription of $10,000 was raised 
and,»ther substantial inducements were offered, one of these being the old stone academy. Proposals 

48 




HOME OF THE GREAT AMERICAN JURIST. JOHN MARSHALL OF VIRGINIA, FOR 
WHOM MARSHALL COLLEGE WAS NAMED 



mh MnnxBbmi^ 



49 



from Chambersburg and Lancaster were offered "but this from Mercersburg, involving no conditions 
that might lead to difficulty or misunderstanding, was regarded as the best," so the offer was accepted. 
The members of the Bo^rd of Trustees from this town were Daniel Shaffer, William jNIcKinstry, 
Elliott T. Lane, Dr. P. W. Little, William Dick and William Metcalfe. 

The High School was removed from York in 1835. O" ^ beautiful November day in that year, 
the students arrived in Mercersburg by stage, fourteen of them in two stages. The faculty consisted 
of Dr. Rauch and Prof. Budd. The school was received with great kindness by the people, but the 
removal had been premature, as the old academy needed extensive repairs and for awhile the school 
occupied a frame building near the Diamond. This building, after the organization of the college, was 
for some years occupied by the preparatory department. The houses for the professors were not 
ready, and during the first winter the school suffered many privations. Notwithstanding these draw- 
backs the number of students steadily increased. On March 31, 1836, Governor Joseph Ritner signed 
the charter of Marshall College, and the Legislature added an appropriation to the endowment of 
the new institution. It was named Marshall College "in testimony of respect for the exalted character, 
great worth and high mental attainments of the late John Marshall, Chief Justice of the United 
States." 

The same summer (1836) the Seminary building was erected, and one of the professor's houses. 
The next year the other house was built. Dr. Rauch superintended the work, while the building com- 
mittee consisted of John Smith, George Besore, Daniel Shaffer and James O. Carson. Two of them 



Semin.\ry Buildings 
Erected 1836 




were Refonned elders, one a Lutheran and the fourth a Seceder. The grounds on which the build- 
ings stood originally consisted of four acres, which were purchased from Mr. William McKinstry 
for $500, the amount of his subscription. Mr. Jacob Hassler, Sr., was another of the four who sub- 
scribed $500 each. 

This building soon became overcrowded by the seminary and college and the students were com- 
pelled to take lodgings wherever thev could find them. In 1838 the Board resolved to build a suitable 
building for the college on a tract of land at the southern end of the village, which had been purchased 
from Mrs. Brownson for $1,000. No one doubted that the college building would soon be erected but 
the claims of the Preparatory Department were pressing and came first. It still occupied the frame 
building in the town (this was destroyed by fire in 1841), which was inadequate to its needs, so it 
was deemed advisable to erect the preparatory building first. In 1844 and 1845 t'^e two beautiful halls 
of the Diagnothian and Goethean Societies were erected. These were alike externally, built in the 
classic style with a portico supported by six Ionic columns and so situated that the proposed college 
building could be erected between them. This would have been imposing had the plan been com- 
pleted, but the college suffered many financial embarrassments. At one time, in 1841, to save the 
school from loss, the trustees were compelled to purchase the Mansion House. The combination of 
college, seminarv and hotel aroused much amusement, but the trustees bravely held the hotel till 1845, 
when Colonel John Murphy bought it. In this year the King of Prussia donated 1,500 German thal- 
ers to Marshall College. 

The number of students in 1845 was 204, an increase of nearly fifty over the year before. The fol- 
lowing vear Prof. Samuel Budd, after a short illness, died. A Princeton graduate of high standing, 



50 (3ih MnnvBhnv!^ 

he impressed upon the High School a collegiate character, so that when the change was made to 
Marshall College, there was no difficulty in arranging the students into college classes. 

When necessity prompted the union of Marshall College with Franklin College, located at Lancas- 
ter, the citizens of Mercersburg objected most vigorously. An indignation meeting was held in the 
Methodist church, at which the people protested against the violation of plighted faith involved in the 
proposed removal. They even agreed to resort to law if necessary to prevent it. The accusation of 
"violation of plighted faith'" was disposed of satisfactorily to the Synod, at least, and the college was 
removed to Lancaster in 1853. 

The feeling in this community was nevertheless sectarian in regard to Marshall College, and this 
is well shown by the order of proceedings on commencement day, which was a great day for Mar- 
shall College and the whole town took part in it. During the early years the commencement exercises 
were held in the Presbyterian church, it being the largest for the purpose, and the following was the 
order usually observed: The procession was formed at the Reformed church and proceeded through 
Main street to the Presbyterian church. First came the brass band, then the trustees, the faculty, and 
the orator of the preceding day, the graduates, the clergy, physicians, borough council, undergraduates 
and the citizens and visitors. 

Marshall College had a separate existence of only seventeen years, but though its life was brief 
and much troubled by financial problems, it was strong intellectually, and it left its stamp on the com- 
munity as well as on its students. Under the leadership of Dr. Rauch it evolved a system of philos- 
ophy which later, under the seminary, developed into the doctrinal system known as Mercersburg The- 
ology. 

In 1848 the Mercersburg Review, a quarterly publication, was established here; it is continued to 
the present day under the name of the Reformed Church Review. 

The Theological Seminary remained here until 1871, when it, too, was taken to Lancaster. It is 
interesting to note that the last class to leave the seminary went out of town on the first passenger 
train to Chambersburg. 

After the removal of Marshall College, the Preparatory Department, under Revs. Samuel Wag- 
ner and Clement Weiser, continued for two years longer, and then followed the college to Lancaster. 
A private school was then opened under Rev. John Kooken. When Mr. Kooken left, in 1857, the 
citizens of Mercersburg formed a stock company, under the name of Mercersburg (sometimes Mar- 
shall) Collegiate Institute. The principal of this school in i860 was Rev. Joseph Loose, who was 
followed in 1862 by A. A. Kemble. Mr. Kemble died in 1863 and was succeeded by his daughters. The 
last to lease the school was Charles Fisher. 

In October, 1865, the property was bought by the Classis of the German Reformed church, and 
the Collegiate Institute developed into Mercersburg College. The chartering of this college was large- 
ly due to the efforts of Dr. Henry Harbaugh, president of the Theological Seminary. 

The first president of Mercersburg College was Dr. Thomas Appel. He was succeeded, in 1871, 
by Dr. E. E. Higbee. These two men, assisted by their able colleagues, Professors Kieflfer, Jacob and 
Joseph Kershner, Bechdolt, Abbott, Carver, and Mull, continued this vigorous institution until 1880, 
when financial embarrassment obliged it to close its doors, to be opened again the next year. 

The education of the girls of Mercersburg was not neglected. Mrs. Young's Select School for 
Girls, which had been located at York, followed in the wake of the high school and seminary and re- 
moved to Mercersburg. 

Mrs. Young's sisters, Mrs. Dr. Rauch and Mrs. Traill Green, were at different times identified 
with the school, which \yas called Locust Grove. 

In 1848 the principals of the school, E. Dean and Susanna Dow, advertised this in the town paper: 
''This institution is pleasantly situated in a retired part of the village of jMercersburg." The principal 
in 1850 was A. F. Gilbert, and in 1857 this advertisement of J. E. Alexander is found, "building has 
lately been repaired. Boarding, Fuel, Light, Room, Furniture, and Tuition per year, $130. Music, 
French and Drawing (extra)." 

This institute, or female seminary as it was later called, was the property at the north end of town 
now owned by Mrs. Johnson Rankin. It was used for school purposes until about 1880. when it became 
a private residence. 

When the public schools were opened, all the children living north of the Run were obliged to 
attend school in their own township (Peters). The school was a small brick building and stood on the 
left side of the pike on the way to the Gap. There are yet living men and women who received their 
early education at this little brick school-house, which has long ago disappeared. 





.^^'^'^^V. 






^^^ ^^ 


^ 






^B^ir^ 


m 


r 



DIAGNUTHIAN HALL 

"Ah. now they're standing all forlorn. 

Or turnefl to other use; 

While we their sad condition mourn, 

Their ruinous abuse — 

Their ruinous abuse, my boys; 

Yet still they wake to view 

The times lamented that were ours. 

When these two Halls were new; 

When these two Halls -were new, my boys, 

When these two Halls were ni \\ ; 



SratlB an& Sna&a 



/^^ N CROSSING the country the Indian always chose the shortest way through the valleys and 
jji over the mountains ; the hunter naturally took the same trail, and he, in turn, was followed 
Ti by the trader; the way of the pack horse at last becoming the wagon road. It is interesting 
0t^^ to note that the routes taken by men, skilled only in woodcraft, were followed in later years 
by the engineers of the turnpike and in many cases, of the railroad. The trail through Cove 
Gap, west of Mercersburg, is a striking example of this. The path for the pack horses carrying their 
goods over the mountains followed the trail of the Indians through the Gap into the gorge known as 
Stony Batter. It then makes a steep ascent to the old John Tom place. The turnpike, on entering 
the Gap diverges to the left and climbs the mountain by an easy, regular grade at no place more than a 
few rods distant from the packer's path. At the Tom place the turnpike comes into the old path, 
which it follows to the top of the mountain. There it again diverges, this time to the right leaving 
the path to the left. Like Stony Batter, the Tom place was a store and inn in the days when the 
packer's path was a thoroughfare leading from Baltimore to Pittsburgh. It was a common sight in 
those days to see a long line of pack horses — often as many as fifteen — tethered together, with two 
men in charge. One man led the foremost horse and the driver followed the file to watch the packs 
and urge the laggards. Two hundred pounds was considered a horse's load. 

On the wagon road which succeeded the packer's path, was seen the Conestoga wagon, that true 
American vehicle with its curved bottom, which made it especially fitted for traversing mountain roads, 
the curved bottom preventing the freight from slipping too far at either end when going up or down 
hill. The body was invariably painted a bright blue, with sideboards of a vivid red. Four to seven 
horses were used in these wagons, according to the load ; and from twenty to one hundred teams would 
follow in close order. Taverns and inns were numerous in those days, each bearing a name, usually 
painted on a swinging sign board with some significant emblem added. It is said that every tenth 
house along the turnpike was a hostelrj^. The building of a turnpike was an undertaking equal to that 
of building a railroad in these days. The turnpike passing through this town was built about 1820, the 
contractor for part of the road being Mr. William Metcalfe, a citizen of Mercersburg. 

What is now known as the Warm Spring road was originally an Indian trail extending from the 
East to the Warm Springs at Berkeley, W. Va. This road enters A'lercersburg on the east by Oregon 
street and continues through the town under the names of Oregon and Park streets, while beyond it is 
known as the Corner Road. Passing through Blair's Valley, it reaches Berkeley by a devious course 
through the mountain passes. 

The first road to Baltimore, wnich was mainly followed by the present turnpike, came about in 
this way. At the April session of the Cumberland County Court, in 1761, the people of Peters town- 
ship petitioned for a road, saying that they have no prospect of a standing market for the produce of 
the country except at Baltimore, and flour jjeing the principal commodity, this "township produccth and 
having two mills in said township, viz: John McDowell's and William Smith's," they pray the Court 
to "appoint men to view and lay out a road from each of said mills to meet at or near the house of Wil- 
liam j\Iaxwell and from thence to run by the nearest and best way towards the said town of Baltimore." 
The viewers reported in favor of granting this petition but the branch roads to the mills were restricted 
to bridle paths which were to unite near James Irwin's mill in Peters township, and thence through 
Antrim township to Nicholson's Gap in the South Mountain, and from there to Baltimore. 



SI 



Abribgrli from "3nriiifnt3 of SorJipr ffiiff." 



3N MAY, 1755, the Province of Pennsylvania agreed to send out three hundred men, in order 
to cut a wagon road from Fort Loudon, to join Braddock"s road near the Turkey Foot, or 
three forks of Yohogania. My brother-in-law, WilHam Smith, Esq., of Conococheague, was 
appointed commissioner, to have the oversight of these road cutters. 

Though I was at that time only eighteen years of age, I concluded I must also go out with 
this company of road cutters, to see the event of this campaign. 

We went on with the road, without interruption, until near the Alleghany mountain ; when I was 
sent back in order to hurry up some provision wagons that were on the way after us. I proceeded 
down the road as far as the crossings of Juniata, where, finding the wagons were coming, I returned 
up the road again towards the Alleghany mountain, in company with one Arnold Vigoras. About 
four or five miles above Bedford, three Indians had made a blind of bushes, stuck in the ground, where 
they concealed themselves. When we came opposite to them they fired upon us, and killed my fellow 
traveler. My horse making a violent start, threw me, and the Indians immediately ran up and took me 
prisoner. One of them could speak English, and asked me if there were any more white men coming 
after? I told them not any near, that I knew of. Two of these Indians stood by me, whilst the other 
scalped my comrade ; they then set off and ran at a smart rate through the woods for about fifteen miles, 
and that night we slept on the Alleghany mountain. 

(Four days later the Indians with their young captive reached Fort Du Quesne. Here Smith was 
compelled to run the gauntlet and was beaten into insensibility. He was adopted into the Caughnewago 
nation, but four years later he made his escape to the French at Montreal, who exchanged him with 
other English prisoners.) 

Early in the year 1760, I came home to Conococheague, and found that my people could never 
ascertain whether I was killed or taken, until my return. They received me with great joy, but were 
surprised to see me so much like an Indian, both in my gait and gesture. 

Now there was peace with the Indians, which lasted until the year 1763. Sometime in May, this 
year, I married, and about that time the Indians again commenced hostilities, and were busily engaged 
in killing and scalping the frontier inhabitants in various parts of Pennsylvania. The whole Conococh- 
eague valley, from the North to the South mountain, had been almost entirely evacuated during 
Braddock's war. This State was then a Quaker government, and at the first of this war the frontiers 
received no assistance from the State. As the people were now beginning to live at home again, they 
thought it hard to be driven away a second time,, and were determined if possible to make a stand; 
therefore they raised as much money by collections and subscriptions as would pay a company of rifle- 
men for several months. They elected me Captain of this company of rangers, and gave me the appoint- 
ment of my own subalterns. I chose two of the most active young men that I could find, who had also 
been long in captivity with the Indians. As we enlisted our men, we dressed them uniformly in the 
Indian manner, with breech-clouts, leggings, moccasins, and green shrouds, which we wore in the same 
manner that the Indians do. In place of hats we wore red handkerchiefs, and painted our faces red and 
black like Indian warriors. I taught them the Indian discipline. We succeeded bevond expectation in 
defending the frontiers, and were extolled by our employers. Near the conclusion of this expedition, I 
accepted of an Ensign's commission in the regular service, under King George, in what was then called 
the Pennsylvania Line. 

In the year 1764 I received a lieutenant's commission and went out on General Bouquet's cam- 
paign against the Indians on the Muskingum. Here we brought them to terms, and promised to be at 
peace with them, upon condition that they would give up all our people that thev had then in captivity. 

They then delivered unto us three hundred of the prisoners and promised that thev would bring all 
into Fort Pitt early next spring. 

52 



i 



mh MmtXBbmQ ^^ 



A little below Fort Pitt the hostages all made their escape. Shortly after this the Indians killed some 
people on the frontier. The King's proclamation was then circulating, prohibiting any person from 
trading with the Indians until further orders. 

Notwithstanding all this, about the ist of March, 1765, a number of wagons loaded with Indian 
goods and warlike stores, were sent from Philadelphia to Henry Pollens, Conococheague, and from 
thence seventy pack horses were loaded with these goods, in order to carry them to Fort Pitt. This 
alarmed the country, and Mr. William Dufifield raised about fifty armed men, and met the pack horses 
at the place where Mercersburg now stands. Mr. Duffield desired the employers to store up their goods 
and not proceed until further orders. They made light of this, and went over the North mountain, 
where they lodged in a small valley called the Great Cove. 

Mr. Duffield and his party followed after, and came to their lodging, and again urged them to store 
up their goods ; he reasoned v\'ith them on the impropriety of their proceedings, and the great danger 
the frontier inhabitants would be exposed to, if the Indians should now get a supply ; he said, as it was 
well known, that they had scarcely any ammunition, and were almost naked, to supply them now would 
be a kind of murder, and would be illegally trading at the expense of the blood and treasure of the 
frontiers. Notwithstanding his powerful reasoning, these traders made game of what he said. 

When I beheld this, I collected ten of my old warriors, and went off privately after night, and en- 
camped in the woods. The next day, as usual, we blacked and painted, and waylaid them near Side- 
ling Hill. I scattered my men about forty rod along the side of the road, and ordered every two to 
take a tree, and about eight or ten rod between each couple, with orders to keep a reserve fire, one not 
to fire until his comrade had loaded his gun — by this means we kept up a constant, slow fire upon them, 
from front to rear. We then heard nothing of these traders' merriment. When they saw their pack 
horses falling close by them, they called out, "Pray, gentlemen, zcliat zvould you have us to do-'" The 
reply was, "Collect all your loads to the front, and unload them in one place; take your private prop- 
erty, and immediately retire." When they were gone, we burnt what they left, which consisted of 
blankets, shirts, vermilion, lead, beads, wampum, tomahawks, scalping knives, etc. 

The traders went back to Fort Loudon, and aplied to the commanding officer there, and got a party 
of Highland soldiers, and went with them in quest of the robbers, as they called us, and without apply- 
ing to a magistrate, or obtaining any civil authority, but barely upon suspicion, they took a number of 
creditable persons (who were chiefly not any way concerned in the action), and confined them in the 
guard house in Fort Loudon. I then raised three hundred riflemen, marched to Fort Loudon, and en- 
camped on a hill in sight of the fort. We were not long there until we had more than double as many 
of the British troops prisoners in our camp, as they had of our people in the guard house. Captain 
Grant, a Highland officer, who commanded Fort Loudon, then sent a flag of truce to our camp, where 
we settled a cartel, and gave them above two for one, which enabled us to redeem all our men. 

After this Captain Grant kept a number of rifle guns, which the Highlanders had_ taken from the 
country people, and refused to give them up. As he was riding out one day, we took him prisoner, and 
detained him until he delivered up the arms ; we also destroyed a large quantity of gunpowder, that the 
traders had stored up, lest it be conveyed to the Indians. The King's troops and our party had now 
got entirely out of the channel of the civil law, and many unjustifiable things were done by both 
parties. 

After this we kept up a guard of men on the frontiers for several months, to prevent supplies being 
sent to the Indians, until it was proclaimed that Sir William Johnson had made peace with them, and 
then we let the traders pass unmolested. 

Smith, who was locally known as "Indian Jimmie," subsequently surprised Fort Bedford and re- 
leased some of his "Black Boys," who were prisoners in the fort. For this it was determined to arrest 
him, and in the altercation that resulted, a traveling companion of Smith's was killed. He was charged 
with the killing and taken to Carlisle, where he was tried for murder. He was honorably acquitted of 
this charge. This was in 1769. 

He then removed to Westmoreland county. He was a member of the Pennsylvania Convention of 
1776, and of the Assembly 1776-77, 

While in the Assembly he organized a scouting party and went in aid of General Washington's 
army in the Jerseys. After the Revolution he settled in Kentucky, where he served as a member of 
the Lesfislature. 



54 (§Ui MntnBbnvQ 



In connection with Colonel Smith and his "Black Boys," in the affair at Fort Loudon, it is of inter- i 
est to note the jjoint of view of the military authority of the Province as shown in the Public Records 
preserved in the Secretary's office at Harrisburg. Rupp's History of Franklin County gives extracts of • 
these from which the following is taken : 

In the report from "Fort Loudon June 4,, 1765. The first rendezvous of the rioters was at Jus- , 
tice Smith's about five miles from Fort Loudon, the 6th day of March last. From thence they followed ' 
the first convoy of goods, consisting of eighty-one horse loads, twelve miles further, and burned and pil- 
laged sixty-three loads. ... 

"The loth of May, about 150 of the rioters, in arms, commanded, as I am informed, by James Smith, 
and attended by three Justices of the Peace, appeared before the Fort, and demanded to search the 
goods, with an intention, it is believed, to plunder and destroy them, as they had done before. Lieu- 
tenant Grant suspecting their design, told the justices that the goods were under his protection, by 
order of the Commander-in-chief (General Gage), who had been pleased to send him instructions , 
to have an inventory of the goods taken by the Justice of the Peace, and that he intended to apply to 
one of their number to have it done, but did not think it safe in presence of such a mob, whom he had 
reason to suspect. To which the Justices made answer, that they would not come again, and imme- 
diately said, they were not under the General's orders ; but it is the Governor's they are to obey. The 
Justices further told Lieutenant Grant that they would pay no regard to any military officer's pass, of 
whatever rank he might be, and that no goods whatever could be safe in going along the communication, 
without a pass from a Justice of the Peace. . . . None of the Justices has taken anv notice of this 
outrage and violence committed on Lieutenant Grant, and the two sergeants I made mention of in my 
last ; on the contrary, Smith, who heads these villains, together with the rest of the party who com- 
mitted these violences, have appeared ever since openly at Justice Smith's house, and were seen there 
by Lieutenant Grant himself, who complained of them to the said Justices, but could obtain no redress." 

In a letter from General Gage to Governor Penn, he alludes to the trial of some of the rioters, of 
March, 1765. 

"... The difficulty you lay under to bring the persons concerned in the attack upon the con- 
voy to_2im[shment, are very obvious, for it is probable that many of the jury who tried the people who 
were prosecuted for the riot, were themselves concerned in it ; and the acquittal of these people, no 
doubt, rendered them more bold and audacious afterward. They have acted ever since without any re- 
serve, keeping regular scouts and guards upon the roads. 

"I herewith transmit you copies of Passes given by Justice Smith and Lieutenant Smith. With 
respect to the advertizement which you resent with so much justice, it appears to have been the con- 
trivance of some leader of the rioters," etc. 

This advertisement, which had been posted near Fort Loudon, was a scurrilous notice, rough even 
for those rude times, but is of interest here that it gives the names of both Black's Town and Squire 
Smith's Town. 

"Governor Penn cited June 27, 1765, Justice Smith and Maxwell to appear at Philadelphia to clear 
up this matter." — 

"January 15, 1766, the Governor removed William Smith from the magistracy and issued a writ to 
apprehend James Smith, as a ringleader of the riots, but no serious effort seems to have been made to 
punish him or his 'Black Boys.' " 



aiapttutty nf aioljn ilrQIuUouglf 

Abrtl>gfi> 

J WAS born in Newcastle county in the State of Delaware. When I was five years old my 
father moved his family from thence to a place known by the name of Conococheague Set- 
tlement where he made a purchase of a tract of land at sheriff's sale, about a year before 
what has been generally termed Braddock's war. Shortly after the beginning of the war, 
he moved his family into York county, where he remained until the spring of 1756, when we 
ventured home. We had not been long at home until we were alarmed again, and we then fled to An- 
tietam Settlement where we remained until the beginning of harvest; then ventured home to secure 
our crops. We stopped about three miles from home, where we got a small cabin to live in until my 
father went home and secured the grain. On the 26th day of July, 1756, my parents and oldest 
sister went home to pull flax, accompanied by John Allen, a neighbor, who had business at Fort Lou- 
don and promised to come that way in the evening to accompany them back. Allen had proceeded 
but about two miles toward Loudon until he heard the Indians had killed a man that morning, about 
a mile and a half from where my parents were at work. He then, instead of going back to accom- 
pany them home, took a circuitous route for fear of the Indians. 

When he came home, my brother and I were playing on the great road, a short distance from the 
house. He told us to go immediately to the house or the Indians would catch us, adding at the same time, 
that he supposed they had killed our father and mother by that time. We were small, I was about eight 
years old, my brother was but five ; we went to the house, the people were all in a bustle making ready 
to go to a fort about a mile off. I recollect hearing them say, that somebody should go and give my 
parents notice ; none would venture to go ; my brother and I concluded that we would go ourselves and 
went off unnoticed by any person. When we came within fifty or sixty yards of the house, all of a 
sudden, the Indians came rushing out of a thicket upon us. They were six in number, to-wit. five In- 
dians and one Frenchman. My brother screamed aloud the instant we saw them ; they stopped before us, 
they tied a pair of moccasins on my feet and started off as fast as I was able to run along with them, 
one of them carrying my brother on his back. We ran along side of the field where my parents were at 
work, they were only intercepted from our view by a small ridge in the field. When we had got about 
seventy or eighty perches from the field we sat down in a thicket of bushes, when we heard our father 
calling us. Two of the Indians ran off toward the house, the other four started off with us as fast as 
I was able to travel along with them, jumping across every road we came to, one catching me by each 
arm and slinging me over the road to prevent our tracks from being discovered. 

We traveled all that day. and it came on rain towards evening. We traveled on till a good while 
after dark ; at last we took up our lodging under a large tree. At break of day we started again ; about 
sunrise we heard a number of axes at a short distance from us ; they immediately took the alarm and 
made off as quick as possible. Toward evening we stopped on the side of a mountain, two of the Indians 
and the Frenchman went down into the valley, leaving one to take care of us. In a short time they 
came back carrying a parcel of hogs on their back and a fowl they had killed, also a parcel of green 
apples in their bosoms ; they gave us some of the apples, which was the first nourishment we got from 
the time we were taken. We then went down the mountain where they kindled a fire and singed the 
hair off the hogs and roasted them, the fowl they roasted for us. Here we were joined by the two In- 
dians who had returned when they heard my father calling us. They had a scalp with them. By the color 
of the hair I concluded it was my father's, but I was mistaken, it was the scalp of the man they had 
killed the morning before they took us. We traveled in the same manner until we reached Fort Du- 
quesne (now Pittsburgh). When we reached the fort, we were taken into a French house, where a num- 
ber of Indians were sitting on the floor. One of the chiefs took my brother by the hand and handed 
him to a Frenchman who was standing at a room door, which was the last sight I had of him. After 



56 mh MnmBbm^ 

that he took me by the hand and made a speech, then handed me to an Indian who was sitting on the 
hearth. He took me between his legs, telling me that I was his brother. The next day I was sent to an 
uncle of my adopted brother, who lived at Shenango on Beaver Creek. I lived with him about a year. 
Sometime in the following summer we went to a treaty with the French at Presque Isle, where I was 
given up to my Indian mother, whom I had never seen before. We moved to Fort Le Boeuf, where my 
mother had a patch of corn. We lived there till fall, occasionally going to the fort to draw rations, as the 
French constantly supplied the Indians with provisions whilst they lay about the fort. Towards fall 
my older brother came to take us to Shenango to live among the rest of our friends. We lived about 
two and a half years at Shenango and then moved to Salt Licks. While living here a trader,, one An- 
drew Wilkins, came to the town. He asked me where I was taken from and my name. I told him. 

As soon as he returned to Shippensburg he informed my father he had seen me, which was the 
first account they received of me from the time I was taken. 

The next spring we moved to Mahoning. Some time in the summer following my father came to 
Mahoning and found me out. I was shy of speaking to him, as I had at that time forgot my mother 
tongue. My Indian brother not being at home, my father returned and left me. The next fall my 
father went out to Fort \'enango or French Creek, along with Wilkins. Wilkins sent a messenger 
to Mahoning for my brother to take me to Venango, telling him that my father would purchase me 
from him. Accordingly he took me oiif without letting me know his intention. When we got to Ve- 
nango we encamped about a mile from the garrison. My brother went to the garrison to bargain with 
my father for me, but told me nothing of it. The next morning my father and two others came to our 
camp and told me that nn- brother wanted to see me at the fort. I went along with them. When we 
got there he told me I must go home with my father. 

I wept bitterly — all to no purpose ; my father was ready to start ; they laid hold of me and set me on 
a horse. 1 threw myself oft, they set me on again and tied my legs under the horse. That night when 
we encamped, my father tied my arms behind my back ; however, I had them loose before he lay down. I 
took care to keep it concealed. 

About midnight I arose and made ofT as fast as I could. I had got near a hundred yards from 
camp when I heard them hunting me with a large dog. I climbed up a tall tree, the dog stopped at 
the root of the tree but they urged him on. The dog came back to the tree again and after a short time 
they came back and stood under the tree for a considerable time — then returned to the fire. I could 
see them distinctly from where I was. I then went down and steered through the woods till I found 
the camp of my friends, then went on about ten miles and there waited till they came up to me. Not 
long after I left them, my father came to the camp and they denied thev had seen me, but promised if 
I had returned to Mahoning to take me to Pittsburgh that fall. This promise they did not keep and it 
was not till the next year that I was sent back. 

In the fall of 1764 a treaty of peace was made with the Indians, bv which all prisoners were re- 
turned. There were about two hundred of us. 

John Martin, from the Big Cove, came to Pittsburgh after his familv, who had been taken bv the 
Indians the fall before I was taken. He got leave to bring me down along with his familv. I got home 
about the middle of December, 1764, being absent eight years, four months and sixteen days. Previous 
to my return my father had sold his plantation, where I was taken from, and bought another one about 
four miles from the former; where I have resided ever since. 

The foregoing is a condensed account of John McCullough's own storv of his capture by the In- 
dians, taken from the original manuscript, now in the possession of his grandson and namesake, John 
McCullough, Esq. The full narrative is to be found in "Incidents of Border Life." 

The plantation from which the two brothers were taken captives was situated about three miles 
southwest of Upton, and the home to which he returned after his captivity is the Harrferoad farm, 
about three and a half miles east of town. 

■ , P-^ ^\^ younger child, James, nothing was ever known, from the time he passed out of his brother's 
sight in the Council House. 

T ^" [■'V^u''^^'''^ account book, the date of the children's capture is entered with this quotation from 
Jeremiah. Chapter XXII, Verse 10: "Weep ye not for the dead, neither bemoan him; but weep sore 
tor him that goeth away : for he shall return no more, nor see his native countrv." The father care- 




CASKV'.S KXOB AND TWO-TOT 




THK O 



I 1) FLIXT-LOCK GUN DROPPED BY THE INDIANS WHO CAPTUKED 
UD 1 1.I.N1 ^"-'*"^^,g"^(^V THE LEATHER FIRE-BUCKETS OF LONG AGO 



JOHN McCULLOUGH 



It was customary for each householder to keep two buckets hanging in his 

liall. Tliis one bears the name of 

Matthew Smith 



fully marked the passage in his Bible as well. The verse has become so woven into the family his- 
tory that as a sort of In Memoriam for the lad, each later member underscores the passage too. 

The restored captive was obliged to learn his English over again, and to begin school at the begin- 
ning ; which, as he often said, was the hardest thing he had to do in his life. That he improved his 
time is shown by his narrative in "Border Life." 

The parents of John McCullough were strict "Old School" Presb)-terians and one of their greatest 
difficulties was to hold the boy in check on the Lord's day. If he saw a deer, his eight years among 
the Indians caused him to raise his gun without a thought of the Sabbath. He never saw an Indian 
after his return, although there were many opportunities, as they often passed through Mercersburg 
on their way to Washington. Mr. McCullough never wished to meet them, he said, except for one 
thing, and that was to see if he could talk with them or if he had forgotten their language just as he 
had forgotten his own, years before. He was unwilling to have his family speak ill of them, because 
they had always been kind to him at any rate. 

One of the Indians left his gun behind in order to carry the younger child. This gun has been 
carefully preserved by the family. An interesting story has been handed down in connection with this 
same gun. 

After the death of the father, the young man and his mother lived together at the farm. One day, 
while the son was absent in town, his mother heard the dogs barking furiously. She went out and 
found that they had treed a bear. She secured the Indian gun, but not having any bullets, she used 
odds and ends of lead instead. She fired seven times, each time hitting the bear but not in a vital spot. 
As she knew the bear would not come down because of the dogs, she went to the house and prepared 
to mould some bullets. But before she was ready to use them, her son came home, and having been 
trained by the Indians, he knew where to hit to kill,, and soon had a dead bear. 

Mr. McCullough married late in life (judged by the standards of those days), being thirty-five 
years old. His first wife was Mary McKinney. After her death he married Elizabeth Cunningham, a 
niece of Dr. King, pastor of the Presbyterian church in Mercersburg; of whose church Mr. McCul- 
lough was a member. He lived to be more than seventy-five years of age. Mr. McCullough is buried 
in a small graveyard on what is now the Mosser farm, near Upton. 




Sobfrt lir(EkUan. §rnut 



4^Bf HE records of the War Department show that one Robert McCleland (sumame also recorded 
/ -4 I as McClelland and McClellan) was a private in Captain James Flinn's Company of Scouts 
ill in the service of the United States under the command of Major General Anthony Wayne 
^^^ (Kentucky), from September 21, 1793, to December 31, 1793. 

The name Robert McClellan (also recorded as Robert McLellan) appears on a pay roll 
of the Spies selected by William Wells in the service of the United States serving with the legion com- 
manded by Major General Wayne in 1794 (Kentucky). The records show that his service began July 
I, 1794, and ended December 6, 1794. This roll bears the remark, "Appointed lieut. July 28, 1794, by 
Major General Wayne, and to receive the company emoluments as a lieutenant of mounted volunteers." 

In "Border Life" we read that "Robert McLelland (whose name has since been immortalized by 
the graphic pen of Washington Irving, in his "Astoria") was one of the most athletic and active men of 
foot that has appeared on this globe. On the grand parade at Fort Greenville, where the ground was 
very little inclined, to show his activity, he leaped over a road wagon with the cover stretched over; the 
wagon and bows were eight feet high." 

From Roosevelt's "The Winning of the West" we also quote : 

"In June, 1794, Wells, Miller, and a third spy, Robert McClellan, were sent out by Wayne with 
special instructions to bring in a live Indian. McClellan, who a number of years afterwards became a 
famous plainsman and Rocky Mountain man, was remarkably swift of foot. Near the Glaize River 
they found three Indians roasting vension by a fire, on a high open piece of ground, clear of brush- 
wood. By taking advantage of the cover yielded by a fallen treetop the three scouts crawled within 
seventy yards of the camp fire ; and Wells and Miller agreed to fire at the two outermost Indians, while 
McClellan, as soon as they had fired, was to dash in and run down the third. As the rifles cracked the 
two doomed warriors fell dead in their tracks; while McClellan bounded forward at full speed, toma- 
hawk in hand. The Indian had no time to pick up his gun; fleeing for his life he reached the bank of 
the river, where the bluflfs were twenty feet high, and sprang over into the stream bed. He struck a 
miry place, and while he was floundering McClellan came to the top of the bluff and instantly sprang 
down full on him, and overpowered him." 

"Wells went off with three companions — McClellan, a man named Mahaffy, and a man named May. 
The four scouts succeeded in capturing an Indian man and woman, whom they bound securely. In- 
stead of returning at once with their captives, the champions, in sheer dare-devil, ferocious love' of ad- 
venture, determined, as it was already nightfall, to leave the two bound Indians where they could find 
them again, and go into one of the Indian camps to do some killing. The camp thev selected was but 
a couple of miles from the British fort. They were dressed and painted like Indians, and spoke the 
Indian tongues; so, riding boldly forward, they came right among the warriors who stood grouped 
around the camp fires. They were at arm's-length before their disguise was discovered. Immediately 
each of them, choosing his man, fired into an Indian, and then they fled, pursued by a hail of bullets. 
May's horse slipped and fell in the bed of a stream, and he was captured. The other three, spurring 
hard and leaning forward in their saddles to avoid the bullets, escaped, though both Wells and McClel- 
lan were wounded ; and they brought their Indian prisoners into Wayne's camp that night." 

_ McLellan, as plainsman and Rocky Mountain guide, appears in "Astoria," where "Washington 
Irving describes him as follows : 

"McLellan was a remarkable man. He had been a partisan under General Wayne in his Indian 
wars ; where he had distinguished himself by his fiery spirit and reckless daring, and marvelous stories 
were told of his exploits. His appearance answered to his character. His frame was meagre but mus- 
cular ; shownig strength, activity and iron firmness. His eves were dark, deep set, and piercing. He 
was restless, fearless, but of impetuous and sometimes ungovernable temper." 

58 




GENERAL HUGH MERCER 



This remarkable man was a native of the West Conococheague Settlement. His parents lived in 
the neighborhood of the Dickey plantation, midway between Mercersburg and Fort Loudon. There 
is an impression that in his childhood he had been an Indian captive for a time. However that may be, 
it is certain that it was here in West Conococheague that he spent his youth. Numerous are the tradi- 
tions handed down from the generation that knew him to be the McClellan of "Border Life." In the 
frontier sports he far surpassed his comrades in agility and endurance. On the race course he was 
known to run faster than a horse could trot. This race course lay on the smooth slope between the 
Dickey (now Hassler) farm and Fort Loudon. Here he first performed the feat (afterwards enacted 
at Fort Greenville) of leaping over a covered wagon. 

Again we quote from "Frontier ]\Ien in Border Life :" "The last I heard of the brave, hardy, 
and active McLelland he had just returned to St. Louis, in 1812, from an expedition across the Rocky 
mountains. He had been to the Pacific Ocean at the mouth of the Columbia River. . . . This enter- 
prise was equal to the daring genius of the man." 




0§i^«]^ral Ifuglf Mttttv 



0^i N THE Parish Register of the Httle country church at Pitsligo, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, there 

^1 are the following entries: "June 9th, 1723, this Lord's day, Mr. William Mercer, the Mis- 

^1 tress Anne Munroe, were proclaimed for the third time." Their marriage followed in the 

#f/ same month. Then: "January 17th, 1726, the Reverent Mr. William Mercer, and Mrs. 

Anne Munroe his wife, had a son baptised named Hugh." 

In view of the above entries, I must take issue with such of his biographers as give the year 1721 as 

the date of the birth of my great-grandfather, Hugh Mercer. More accurate history should place it in 

the year 1725. 

Descended, on his paternal side, from a long line of ministers of the Church of Scotland, dating 
from about 1650, it was doubtless both from inheritance and training that Hugh Mercer was so thor- 
oughly imbued with those sterling virtues of truth, a high sense of honor, loyalty, and devotion to 
duty, which made him the good and great man he was afterwards to become. According to our family 
tradition he was a man of modest, gentle, unassuming nature, content to do his duty faithfully as he 
saw it, without any undue regard either to the praise or blame of others ; and he would, no doubt, in 
his early years have been very much surprised had it been foretold of him how prominent a part he 
was destined to play in after-life, in the history of his adopted country. Hugh Mercer became a student 
of medicine at Marischal College in 1740, and we next hear of him as an assistant surgeon in the army 
of "Bonnie Prince Charlie" in 1746, in that ill-fated attempt to place him on the throne of his fathers. 
The Scotch, especially those from the Highlands, were always loyal to the House of Stuart, and Mercer, 
no doubt convinced of the justice of the cause, and with all his martial and patriotic spirit stirred to 
the depths, hastened to "link his fortune and his fate" to the cause of the Pretender. This was all the 
more to be expected as he had fighting blood in his veins, his maternal grandfather being Sir Robert 
Monroe, who fought with distinction in the British Army on the Continent, at Fontenoy and else- 
where. He was ordered home to oppose the Young Pretender, and was killed while in command at 
the battle of Falkirk in 1746. We do not know whether his grandson, Hugh Mercer, was his opponent 
on that bloody field, but we do know that he was certainly at the battle of Culloden, where Prince 
Charlie's army was completelv crushed, and the Stuart cause lost forever. "In his flight the Pretender 
was like a hare hunted by hounds. Flora MacDonald, a Scottish maiden, foiled his pursuers ; and at 
length he reached France in safety. His loval and loving followers found refuge in any way possible, 
hunted down and mercilessly butchered when caught. The terrible tragedy of the battle was as nothing 
compared to the butchery of these fugitives bv the relentless and implacalDle Duke of Cumberland, a 
name made infamous by his treatment of a fallen foe." After remaining in hiding for a time, Hugh 
Mercer managed to escape the vigilance of his enemies, and in the fall of the year 1746, embarked at 
Leith for America, landing a few weeks afterwards at Philadelphia. He remained but a short time 
in that city, however, and then made his first attempt to establish a home, on the western border of the 
State of Pennsylvania, at a place then described as "near Greencastle," but now, since named in his 
honor, known to all the country as Mercersburg. Here he settled down to the practice of his profes- 
sion — a varied experience in those Colonial times on the frontier of civilization, requiring high qualities 
of endurance, patience, skill and courage. It is believed that Mercer's services as a physician and sur- 
geon covered the whole Conococheague Settlement, embracing the entire district between Chambers- 
burg and his own residence ; and young as he was at that time, he was well known to all the inhabi- 
tants of the region round about, loved and welcomed everywhere, and looked up to as one who not 
only healed the sick, but who strengthened the weak, comforted the weary, and cheered the sorrowing. 
It was a splendid preparation for the hardships and privations he was in future called upon to endure — 
"A life of hardship well done, and consecrated by self sacrifice." But Dr. Mercer was not to be allowed 
to lead his chosen life for a very long period among those peaceful scenes in that beautiful part of the 
State of Pennsylvania. After Braddock's disastrous defeat bv the French and Indians in his attempt to 

60 



s 




SWORD OF GENERAL HUGH MEItClOR 
111 tlip possession of the Historical Society of Peinisylvania 



ill ).\Tlir:XT TO GKXERAL, Hl'GIl MEROF.R 

Erected Ijy tlie St. Andrew's Society in Laurel Hill 
Cemetery, Pliiladelpliia 




capture Fort Duquesne in the year 1755, the Indians, emboldened by success, became more and more 
troublesome, and in self-defense the colonists formed themselves into companies of Rangers, of one of 
which Dr. Mercer was made Captain. His commission is dated March, 1756, and his territory ex- 
tended to the Welsh Run district and Mercersburg into the remote regions among the foothills, with 
headquarters at McDowell's Fort, now Bridgeport. In one of his Indian fights he was severely 
wounded, and having been left behind by his retreating companions, he narrowly escaped with his 
life. Closely pursued by the savages, he providentially found a place of safety in the hollow trunk of a 
tree around which the Indians rested, and discussed the prospect of scalping him in the near future. 
When they had taken their departure, Mercer struck out in another direction, and completely outwitted 
them. Sick with his wounds, and worn out with his struggles, he began a lonely march of one hundred 
miles, but finally succeeded in joining the remnant of his command at Fort Cumberland. To sustain 
existence while on this wearisome march, he was compelled to live upon roots and herbs, the carcass of 
a rattlesnake proving his most nourishing meal. Hugh JMercer was with the force that surprised and 
destroyed the Indian village of Kittaning in 1756, but was severely wounded in that encounter, and once 
more counted among the missing. For the second time he had to use all his wits to maneuver and 
march through the forest, half famished and faint from the lack of food, until he succeeded in joining 
his surviving companions. Such energy and bravery elicited the applause of all who knew his expe- 
riences, and in appreciation of his services and sufferings, the Corporation of Philadelphia presented 
him with a vote of thanks, and a beautiful memorial medal. In the summer of 1757 Mercer was made 
commander of the garrison in the fort at Shippensburg, and in December of the same year was ap- 
pointed major of the forces of the Province of Pennsylvania, posted west of the Susquehanna. In the 
following year he was in command of a part of the expedition of General Forbes against Fort Duquesne ; 
and it was on this memorable march that he first met George Washington, then a brigadier general of 
Virginia troops. A strong attachment soon sprang up between these two men, which lasted as long 
as Mercer lived, and as a result of that attachment, on the advice and at the suggestion of Washington, 
Virginia became the home of Hugh Mercer, and Mercersburg lost a good and valued citizen. After the 
conclusion of the French and Indian war, and the evacuation of the forts by their French garrisons, 
Mercer, who had been promoted to the rank of Colonel, retired from military life, and moving to Fred- 
ericksburg, Virginia, again commenced the practice of his profession as a physician. "At this time, 
although thinly settled, this part of Virginia contained the home of many of the most distinguished fami- 
lies on the Continent. They gave Mercer the cordial welcome to which his education and talents entitled 
him, reinforced by his brilliant career as a military man, and supplemented by the brotherly love and 
many favors shown him by General Washington." Life in the quiet little town of Fredericksburg dur- 
ing the next few years was uneventful ; the only matter of interest being Mercer's marriage to Isabella 
Gordon, the daughter of a prominent Virginia family, and a sister of the lady who married George 
Weedon, a major-general in the War of the Revolution. At his death General Weedon left his property 
to my grandfather, Hugh Mercer, second, who was an infant at the time of his father's death at the 
battle of Princeton. With this dear old home. "The Sentry Box," on the banks of the Rappahannock 
river, are connected some of the happiest memories of my childhood and early girlhood. Mv father, 
Hugh Mercer, third, was the much beloved eldest son of the family, and, as long as his parents lived, 
his children were taken by him every year to spend a few weeks at "The Sentry Box," still dear to my 
memory. In 1775 Dr. Mercer's quiet life was again to be interrupted by political troubles. "Ominous 
clouds were gathering in the Colonial sky, and the perilous situation was quickly and fully realized 
by the patriotic Virginians. When the general British order went forth to seize all military stores in the 
Colonies, the Americans made prompt resistance without further ])arleying. Massachusetts was speed- 
ily followed by Virginia ; and in almost the first important item we find that Dr. Hugh Mercer was 
drilling a partially organized body of Virginia men to be ready for any emergency. They did not have 
long to wait, and when "the next gale from the North brought the clash of resounding arms, the pa- 
triots of Virginia commenced organizing for immediate fighting.'' 

In March, 1775, the Virginia Convention assembled in St. John's church, Richmond, where the elo- 
quence of Patrick Henry and his splendid rallying cry of "Liberty or death," stirred all hearts to decision 
and action. Mercer, with his customary modesty, made to the Cenvention his simple proffer of sen'ice 
in the expressive words. "Hugh Mercer will serve his adopted country, and the cause of Liberty, in any 
rank or station to which he may be assigned." Noble words these, which found their echo in what he 
said later, "We are not engaged in a war of ambition, or I should not have been here. Every man 



62 (§ih MnavBbnx^ 

should be content to serve in that station in which he can be most useful. For my part I have but one 
object in view, and that is the success of the cause; and God can witness how cheerfully I would lay 
down my life to secure it." After some balloting and discussion, to Mercer was assigned the Colonelcy 
of the Third Regiment of Virginia, but Congress having adopted the Virginia troops as a part of the 
Continental Army, Mercer was not long permitted to remain a Colonel, but on the urgent recommenda- 
tion of Washington was made a Brigadier-General. His commission is dated June 5, 1776, and his as- 
sio'nment with "the Army around New York." It is impossible within the limits of this short sketch, to 
follow all the details of the later career of my illustrious ancestor, much as it would interest me to do 
so, and I must confine myself to matters only of the greatest interest. 

The friendship between Washington and Mercer continued warm and unabated, and there is every 
reason to believe that the latter was often consulted upon military matters by his great Chief. It is 
stated on good authority that the idea of attacking the British army at Trenton originated with fier- 
cer, and he is also credited with the plan of the battle of Princeton. This was a most daring venture, 
for our little army was struggling against tremendous odds, and a single break in the American calcu- 
lations meant untold disaster. "All went well through the night, but in the early hours of the 3d of 
January, 1777, the American troops were surprised by the 17th British Regiment under Colonel Maw- 
hood. General Mercer was on a fine gray horse, occupying the post of honor in the front, and at the 
first volley from the enemy his horse was brought down, and his most trusted lieutenant, Colonel Haz- 
lett, killed. The British troops charged after tlie third volley, and the Colonists were driven back in dis- 
order before a bayonet charge, by a force vastly superior in numbers." jMercer was unable to extricate 
himself from his fallen horse in time to defend himself at once, and at that instant he was surrounded 
by a detachment of the enemy, who thought from his prominent position in the front that they had cap- 
tured the "rebel General Washington." They demanded his surrender, but with too reckless courage he 
refused, and sought to fight his way out with his sword, when he was struck fromi behind by a blow with 
the butt end of a musket, and was knocked down, receiving while he lay helpless no less than seven bay- 
onet wounds in his body, in addition to two wounds in the head. As soon after the battle as possible 
General Mercer was moved to an adjacent farm house owned by Mr. Clark, where he was tenderly 
cared for by Mrs. Clark and her daughter; and for a time his recovery was hoped for in spite of the 
intense pain from his wounds and the great loss of blood. Everything that medical skill could accom- 
plish was done to alleviate his suffering, and to save the life of this brave and gallant man, but nine days 
after the battle he expired in the arms of Major George Lewis, who had been sent by his uncle. Gen- 
eral Washington, to minister to the wants of the dying hero. General Mercer died as he had lived, 
bravely and calmly sinking into his well earned rest. "What is to be, is to be ! Good-bve dear native 
land ! Farewell adopted country ! I have done my best for you ! Into thy care, O America, I commit 
my fatherless family ! May God' prosper our righteous cause !' Amen !" Such was his final praver, his 
race was won, his labor over! 

And so passed into the Great Bej'ond this brave and good man. a pure patriot and a martvr to the 
cause of liberty. It is no exaggeration to sav that the whole countrv mourned his loss. His body was 
removed under a military escort from Princeton to Philadelphia, where it lay in state for a day. and 
\yas then interred in Christ Churchyard with militarv honors, and attended, it is said, bv over thirty 
thousand persons. General Mercer was a member of the St. Andrew's Society of Philadelphia, and his 
body was removed in 1840 to Laurel Hill Cemetery, and reinterred in the burial lot purchased for the 
purpose by that Society, which, in addition to caring for his grave, is the custodian of his sword, now 
deposited with the Historical Society of Philadelphia. I cannot more fitlv close this sketch than by 
quoting the fine words of a recent biographer. "He is entitled to the gratitude of all libertv-loving 
America. His life was beautiful and complete in its svmmetrv, and was both a benediction and bene- 

l^^^^\ ,, "lemory of such a man cannot perish from the face of the earth, but shall be as eternal 
as Truth. 

T I. ^'i^^^'^*'"(?J'^^ '^''°^'^ ^"^^t^h I wish to acknowledge mv obligations to James D. Law, Esq.. Judge 
John U. Goohdv, and the St. Andrew's Society of Philadelphi^a. M.\ry Mercer Walker. 







HOUSE BUILT BY SAMUEL FINDLAT 



® 



Mitli Partirular EtUrente to (Bavtrnar MtUtam Jl^ut&iag 

NE OF the things which best shows the migratory nature of the American people is the fact 

' that of a family prominent in Pennsylvania in the closing years of the Eighteenth Century 

and the early years of the Nineteenth Century, not one person of the name is now living in 

that State. There are direct descendants of the line in the State, but the Findlay name has 

passed out of the State's life. 

Adjutant Brown, a defender at the siege of Derry, came to Philadelphia as a refugee soon after. 
His daughter, Elizabeth, married here Samuel Findlay, and their son, Samuel, came to the vicinity of 
Mercersburg — long before that town existed; settling on government land. Living near by were other 
Scotch-Irish refugees, and among them the family of William Smith. (I have in my possession the land 
patent issued to the Smiths by King George II.) Jane Smith, daughter of William, married Samuel 
Findlay, 2d, and, dying at the age of thirty-five, left behind her six sons, among whom were to be men 
active in public life. These six sons first saw the light of day in Mercersburg, though in 1785 Samuel 
Findlay purchased a tract of land near the White Church, still known to some Mercersburgers as the 
"old Findlay fami." 

After Samuel Findlay's death (his grave is to be seen in the White Church graveyard) his farm 
was divided among his children, and some of the sons lived for several j-ears on these sections of the 
home farm, before they were called to wider fields of public service. 

The oldest of these sons, John, was born on March 31, 1766; the second son, William, was born 
June 20, 1768; James was born in 1775. The other sons were Jonathan, Samuel, Robert. 

John Findlay married Agnes Brownson March 11, 1788. This happy union was blessed with 
seven children, five girls and two sons. The wife died in 1805, and in 1808 he married Jane Bard Mc- 
Dowell, who survived him and lived in Mercersburg with her step-daughter-in-law, Mrs. Sally Findlay. 
John Findlay lived on part of his father's farm and all his children were born there. In i8og he was 
elected Prothonotary and held this office until 1821. He then moved to Chambersburg. During this 
period he filled the office of Register and Recorder; Clerk of the Orphan's Court; Clerk of the Court 
of Quarter Sessions, Court of Oyer and Terminer. In 1821 he was elected to the National House of 
Representatives as Representative from the Fifth District and remained in this office until 1829, when 
President Jackson, who was a warm friend and admirer of John Findlay, appointed him Postmaster at 
Chambersburg, which place he held until his death in 1838. 

The second son, William, was born on the farm in 1768 and proved a bright lad, very fond of his 
book. It was the family intention to send William to college, but financial loss to his father, caused by 
fire, broke off this intention. William read and studied, however, and like the other sons, became well 
educated and competent. On December 17, 1791, he married Nancy Irwin, daughter of Archibald 
Irwin, the family connected with Irwin's Mill and the Harrison line. The young couple began married 
life on part of the home farm, which part was willed to him on the death of his father, in 1799. As a 
young man he became a follower of Mr. Jefferson's political school and an ardent Demo-Republican. 
His first public office was as Major of militia. In 1797 he was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Rep- 
resentatives, then sitting in Philadelphia. He (not yet thirty }-ears of age) was one of the youngest 
members. In 1803 he was re-elected to the House. The capital was then temporarily located in Lan- 
caster. William Findlay was the author of a proposal to locate the capital permanently at Harris- 
burg, and although the bill did not pass at that time, it did later and the seat of government was moved 
to Harrisburg in 1812. Mr. Findlay was retained in the House and was active there until January. 
1807, when he was elected State Treasurer. He resigned from the House and filled the new office until 
1817, being annually elected for eleven years. During his official service as Treasurer the second war 
with Great Britain' was fought. The "disturbances at large and some poor legislation in the State 

63 



64 mh MtmtBbnt^ 

flooded the State with faulty paper money. In spite of the greatest care about $700 of this money 
found its way into the State Treasury, which Mr. Findlay insisted upon making good from his own 
funds. This'act coming to the notice of the Legislature, they voluntarily refunded the money to him. 
In 1817 he was a candidate for Governor against General Joseph Hiester, and was elected by about 
7,000 majority. His political opponents tried to annoy him by calling for an investigation of the State 
Treasurer's office. Without giving the matter any personal attention, he administered his governor- 
ship ; and the Assembly, after investigating the matter for an entire session, said in part, "The conduct 
of the State Treasurer in his official capacity has been not only faithful but meritorious and beneficial 
to the State, and entitles him to the thanks and gratitude of his fellow citizens." He remained Governor 
until 1820, when he was defeated by General Hiester. Visiting some relatives in the old home in 
Franklin county, he received word that he had been elected to the United States Senate for the full 
term of six years. This made him United States Senator at the same time his brother John was in the 
National House of Representatives. After the expiration of his term he was appointed by President 
Jackson Treasurer of the Philadelphia Mint. This position he held until 1841, when he desired to lay 
down the burden of public service and spend his last days quietly. He therefore resigned, spending 
the remaining days of his life with his beloved daughter, Nancy, wife of Governor Francis Rawn Shunk, 
in whose home, at Harrisburg, he died, November 12, 1846. During his term as Governor the old 
capitol building was begun, and its corner stone was laid by him. In personal appearance he was much 
like the other Findlays. His portrait is in Independence Hall. He loved his church, the Presbyterian, 
and lived and died as a Christian citizen. 

Others of this family possessed the political bent. A third brother, James, had Western fever and 
went in 1793 to Cincinnati, then a frontier fort. In 1798 he became a member of the Legislative Coun- 
cil for Ohio Territory, identifving himself with Mr. Jefferson's party. He became prominent in po- 
litical life and filled various offices, civil and military, until 1824. In the second war with Great Britain 
he was commissioned Colonel of the Second Ohio Volunteers, and served under General Hull at Detroit. 
At the same time his oldest brother, John, who never removed from Franklin county, was Colonel of a 
Pennsylvania Volunteer Regiment that marched to the defense of Bahimore. Though these brothers 
did not meet during their military campaigns, they were destined to meet in legislative duties; for in 
1826 James Findlay" was sent to tlie National House of Representatives and remained there until 1833. 
Thus Mercersburg has the remarkable record of having three brothers from one of her families in the 
United States Congress at one time ; a record that has been duplicated but once in our Nation's history. 

One other brother needs a word of notice. When Louisiana was added to our territory and the 
"West" had stretched over and beyond the great Mississippi, Western fever also attacked a younger 
brother, Jonathan. He crossed the great stream and in 1813 made his home in old Westport, Missouri, 
where Kansas City now stands. Here he helped erect the State of Missouri and was an active member 
of the Commission that framed the Constitution under which that State asked for admission to the 
Union and almost caused the disruption of union in 1820. His public work has not been written up so 
fully as that of his older brothers, but it has been my good fortune in the last few years to read many 
family letters written to and by him and his family, and to learn of his political career in the early days 
of Missouri. His direct descendants are yet living in Kansas City and have intermarried with some of 
the old families of the State ; many of them being active in public affairs of a later day. Such a record 
for four of six brothers entitles that early family to som.e notice in the annals of Old Mercersburg ; and 
while their progeny may not have followed the footsteps of the public careers of these brothers, they 
derive much satisfaction from the fact that the private life of the Findlay brothers is as open to inspec- 
tion as their public life; that these were honest, hardworking, kindly, God-fearing men. who "owed no 
man but to love one another." 

There are some items of family history which may be of interest here. As I noted. Samuel 
Findlay, founder of the Franklin county branch, married Jane Smith, daughter of William. William's 
brother, Abraham, was a Captain in Colonel William Irvine's regiment, the Sixth Pennsylvania, in 
January, 1776, and afterward became Colonel of the Eighth Pennsylvania. Samuel Findlay was Quar- 
termaster in the Sixth Pennsylvania, of which Dr. Richard Brownson was Surgeon. Later, John Find- 
lay, son of Samuel, married Agnes Brownson, daughter of Dr. Richard. James Findlay and William 
Findlay, sons of Samuel, married two Irwin sisters; and Robert Smith, uncle of James and William 
Findlay (being a son of William Smith) married the third sister, thus making the uncle brother-in-law 




SILHOUETTES OF 1S26 

1 Colonel John Finillav. born in 1706 

2 John Findlay, Junior 




mh Mmnsbnr^ 



to his own nephews. Jane Irwin, who married President W. H. Harrison, was brought up by her aunt, 
Mrs. James Findlay, in Cincinnati, and the latter Hved with her niece in the White House during the 
President's short term. 

Robert Smith was a member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives four terms, between 
1807-1815; was State Senator from 1819 to 1823; back in the House in the session of 1823-24, when he 
was made Speaker. In 1836 he was made an Associate Judge of the Si.xteenth District and was still in 
that position in 1842. In the meantime John Findlay's son. John, and Robert Smith's daughter, Sarah, 
near cousins as they were, found that they desired a closer bond and were married. These were the 
grandfather and grandmother of the present chonicler and thus she had the privilege of being born a 
Ivlercersburger and writing these tales of an older day. Sara Findlay Rice. 




Olaptmn Snb^rt '^nrkn 



4^^ OBERT Parker entered the service of his country from Philadelphia April 26, 1777, as Sec- 
dm/ ond Lieutenant in the Second Continental Artillery, and was promoted to Captain Liuetenant. 
41% He served until 1783. 

^i^% Captain Parker was with his battery in the battle of Brandywine, Germantown and 

Monmouth, in General Sullivan's expedition against the Indians, and in the Siege of York- 
town. He witnessed the surrender of Cornwallis and was with the Southern Army. While with Gen- 
eral Sullivan's expedition he kept a journal, which has been preserved and printed in the Magazine 
of History and Biography, published by the Historical Society of Pennsylvania. He was a member 
of the Society of the Cincinnati. 

In 1787 he was appointed Collector of Excise for Franklin county. He settled at Mercersburg, 
where he married a daughter of Squire Smith. Here he built for himself a stone mansion, fine for that 
period, which is still standing. In the north gable is a tablet containing his initials "R. P." and dated 
"1788,"' which is almost obliterated by exposure to the elements. Here he died May i, 1799. He is 
buried in Church Hill graveyard. 

When General LaFayette visited America, in 1824, a son of General Porter, who was also a nephew 
of Captain Parker, was presented to him. General LaFayette recalled to memory his father. General 
Porter, whom he had met at the battle of Brandywine, and said, "I bless you for your father's sake. 
He was a brave man. He had with him there a young man, a relative, I think, whose name I have for- 
gotten. They fought very nearly together." "Was it Parker?" young Porter asked. "That was the 
name," the Marquis said ; "they were good soldiers, and very kind to me when I was wounded." 



inrtnr Uilltam iiagam 



When General LaFayette passed through Meadville in the year 1824, he recognized Dr. Magaw as 
the Surgeon who dressed his wounds after the battle of Brandvwine. 

This distinguished Revolutionary soldier was born in the year 1744. He enlisted in Tune, 177^, in 
a company of volunteers of Cumberland county, and marched 'at once to join the American Army, then 
lying before Boston. The records of the Adjutant-General's office at Washington show that he 'served 
as Surgeon in the First Pennsylvania Regiment. He appears to have been in service in June, 1775, but 
the period of that service has not been found of record. The records show him commissioned Sur- 
geon of the same regiment May 13, 1777, and transferred prior to Mav, 1778, to the Ninth Pennsvl- 
vania Regiment, commanded by Colonel Richard Butler. His name appears in certain accounts, which 
show that he was paid as of the Fourth Pennsylvania Regiment to January i, 1783. 

Thus he served his country until the close of the war, when he settled in Mercersburg and prac- 
ticed medicine there for many years. 

In 1787 his name appears on the records of the Presbyterian church as a member of that congre- 
gation. In 1792 he was granted a patent for the tract of land called Springfield. About 1823 he re- 
moved to Meadville, where he spent the evening of his life in the home of'his son. Here he died on 
the 1st of May, 1829. 

The following is taken from his tombstone in Greendale Cemeten% Meadville. 

"The deceased embarked in the cause of his Countrv at the dawn of the Revolution, and served 
throughout all its privations until its close with the confidence and esteem of the great Washino-ton 
He was a member of the Society of the Cincinnati, and died as he had lived, beloved and respected bv all 
who knew him, as an ardent Patriot, upright man and an exemplarv Christian " 

66 




ROBERT SMITH 

A boy of nine years at tlie beginning of tlie Revolution 
From an old daguerreotype 



WILLIAM McKIXSTHY 
From a pencil sketcb 




(ilb MmnBbnxQ 67 



inrtnr il^jss^ IHagam 

Jesse Magaw, who was a son of Dr. William Magavv, was born and reared in Mercersburg. Here 
he taught school, studied medicine with his father, and later practiced his profession. He is said to have 
served in the War of 1812 as a medical officer. On January 30, 1823, he married Maria Buchanan, t^ 
sister of James Buchanan, and widow of Samuel Johnson. On September 29th of the same year he 
died, a victim to his devotion to his patients during the epidemic which prevailed in this county from 
1821 to 1823. His body lies in the neglected country graveyard, a short distance east of Mercersburg. 



Mr. McKinstry was a native of Belfast, Ireland. He came to Mercersburg about 1796, where he 
commenced life as a clerk in a general store. Through industry and economy he was enabled in a few 
years to embark in business on his own account. This he did by purchasing the store of James Buch- 
anan, senior. To this he added other enterprises, both in manufacture and in real estate; investing ex- 
tensively in the latter. He had a bent for building, and to him, more than to any other one man, 
Mercersburg is indebted for its many large and substantial houses. 

As a member of the Democratic party, Mr. McKinstry represented Franklin county in the Legis- 
lature from 1838 to 1840. He lived to the advanced age of ninety-one years and died on April 23, 1861. 



Suig^ lar& 



Archibald Bard was an .Associate Judge of Franklin county for twenty-one years, servmg con- 
tinuously from his first appointment. He was born in Peters township, a few miles from Mercers- 
burg, on June 27, 1765, and died in 1832. He was a son of Richard and Catherme Bard, who were 
captured bv the Indians in 1760. The narrative of their captivity and escape was compiled by hmi 
from his father's papers and can be found in "Loudon's Narratives" and in "Border Life." 



Mh^t g^mttJf 



Robert <^mith, youngest son of William Smith, senior, was born at Mercersburg m 17^66 and died 
in 1849. He was a' member of the Legislature from 1807 to 1815 ; a member of the State Senate from 
1819 to 1823, and Associate Judge of Franklin county from 1836 to 1843. 



68 



mh Mi^mvBbnv^ 



i0rt0r Agn^m 



"Dr. D. H. Agnew offers his professional services to all who may favor him with their calls. 
He may be found at iVlr. Thomas McCausland's, near the Greencastle and Mercersburg turnpike, mid- 
way between the above named places. May lo, 1839." 

The above, taken from the Repository, is the card of the eminent surgeon. D. Hayes Agnew, who 
settled for a short time in Franklin county, not far from where Dr. Hugh Mercer had lived. 

Dr. Agnew was one of the physicians who attended President Garfield in his last illness. 



I|0n0mbb ®tf0ma0 (!Iar00n 

Thomas Carson, who was born August 6, 1791, came to Mercersburg when a young man and en- 
gaged in the manufacture of hats, and later in niercantile business. As a member of the old Whig 
partv he served the public as a legislator in both the House and Senate of Pennsylvania. He was 
a member of the House four years, and was twice elected to the Senate for temis of three years each. 
During his last term he was elected Speaker of the Senate. 



Mh^t (Untmn 



James Oliver Carson, born February 4, 1796, settled in Mercersburg in 1826,, where he engaged in 
mercantile pursuits. His business interests were many and varied, and his name appears in connection 
with all the public enterprises of the town. 

In 1856 Mr. Carson was nominated by the Republican party for Associate Judge of Franklin 
county, in which capacity he served for the following ten years. 

Judge Carson was an abolitionist who took a most active interest in the great question of his day. 
He died on June 14, 1870. 





JOHN McL)ij\vi;li>, i.l. n. 



ainljn iirinmpU. Mi. i. 

Jftjrst ^rraiiirnl of &t. iloliu'e (EoIIrgc . AnnapDliB, iHarylanJi 
ijJhuii Jlrnnost uf lluinrrBity of JJrnnBijiBaitia 

^^■r'HE subject of this sketch was of the third generation of Peters township McDowells — one of the 
/ -4 oldest families of this county. William McDowell, the emigrant ancestor, was born in Ireland 

1 I r in 1680. He married an Irish lady whose first name was Mary, but her last name is not 
^^^ known. They came across the water about 1715 and first settled in Chester county, near Phil- 
adelphia. About 1735. having obtained a warrant or survey of a large tract of land at the 
foot of Parnell's Knob, in what is now Peters township, Franklin county (then Lancaster county), Mr. 
McDowell moved to and settled in what was then, or shortly afterwards, known as the West Conococh- 
eague Settlement. Most of the land of this survey, nearly eight hundred acres, was taken up, occupied 
and farmed by his sons as they reached manhood. His son William occupied the northern portion, his 
eldest son, John, the southern end of this survey, upon which were erected a flouring mill and "Mc- 
Dowell's Fort," famous in frontier history. The remainder of the land was occupied by the other sons 
of William. Three McDowells, direct descendants of the first William, of the sixth generation, are now 
living upon this original survey, and another, of the fifth generation, owns the most northern portion. 
The tract upon which the first William originally settled and built has been continuously and successively 
owned, occupied and farmed by his direct descendants, from father to son, for over one hundred and 
seventy-five years. William B. ^IcDowell, of the sixth generation, now lives upon this ancestral home- 
stead. 

John McDowell, the subject of this sketch, was born on his father's homestead, at the foot of 
Mount Parnell, in Peters township, Cumberland county (now Franklin), on February ii, 1751. He 
was the son of William McDowell (the second son of the emigrant William), a farmer and Justice 
of the Peace and a ruling elder of the Upper West Conocochcag'ne Presbyterian church from Decem- 
ber 19. 1767, until his death. September 17, 1812. William McDowell, second, had twelve children, of 
whom die subject of our sketch was the second. Piut very little is known of the youth of John Mc- 
Dowell. His early years were spent in troublous times. During the French and Indian wars of 1755- 
56, his father's family were at different times driven from their home by the Indians. During one of 
these forays their home was burned by the savages. Apart from these exciting incidents, his youth 
was probably an uneventful one. They had but few near neighbors, and young playmates were scarce. 
His home was ten miles from Chamber'sburg and six miles from Mercersburg, at which latter place he 
attended church, and also at the old "White Church," located about two miles east of Mercersburg. 
What school advantages he had does not appear, but it is probable that he was taught by Reverend 
Steele, then pastor at Church Hill. As. Mr. John King taught school from 1760 to 1763. it is quite likely 
that he included John McDowell among his pupils at the old school house near the White Church. 

He was earlv taught the Bible, the Shorter and Larger Catechisms, and the Confession of Faith 
of the Presbyterian church, these of themselves being good training for the young mind. Where and 
by whom he was prepared for college is not known. P.ut he probably received part of his early educa- 
tion in Chambersburg. as he had relatives then living there. He entered the College of Philadelphia in 
1768. and was graduated with honor in the class of 1771, when he was twenty years old, "having the 
part of English oration at commencement." It is presumable he had to help himself through college, 
as he was a tutor from 1769 to 1782. 

I'nder the call of July 28, 1777, he served as a Private in Captain Samuel Patton's marching 
company." He was never a robust man, and could not stand an army life. In 1782 he left the Col- 
lege of Philadelphia and went to Cambridge, Dorcester county, Maryland, where he engaged in teaching. 
Whilst teaching he studied law and was admitted to the Bar. In 1784 he was admitted to the Franklin 
County Bar, at the first term of its Courts, after its erection into a county. He returned to Cambridge 
to practice law and succeeded in obtaining a large clientele, among whom were a number of the prominent 

69 



70 (^Ui MtnnBbntQ 



men of Maryland. In 1789 he was appointed professor of mathematics at St. John's College, Annapolis, 
Maryland, and in 1790 was unanimously elected the first President of that college. 

St. John's was a State institution, chartered by the State Legislature, which voted and pledged 
seventeen hundred and fifty pounds "annually and forever thereafter'' as a donation to the use of the 
college for its support. The college was formally opened on November 11, 1789. A building, originally 
intended for the Governor's mansion, was designated as the college building by the Legislature when it 
decided to establish St. John's College. This building was four stories high and was later renovated 
and greatly improved in its interior arrangements. It was called "McDowell Hall'' in honor of its be- 
loved President and still retains that name. 

In 1806 Mr. McDowell was chosen Professor of Natural Philosophy in the University of Pennsyl- 
vania at Philadelphia. He accepted the same and retired from St. John's. 

In 1807 he was elected a member of the American Philosophical Society and received the de- 
gree of LL. D. from the University. The same year he Iiecame the third Provost of the University 
and continued to fill both positions until 1810, when, owing to ill health, he resigned both these offices; 
but in 1812 he temporarily acted as Provost for his successor. Dr. Andrews. 

Dr. McDowell never enjoyed really good health. In a letter, written by him to his father, soon 
after assuming the duties of Provost of the L^^niversity, he says : "Indeed I can not sometimes help re- 
gretting that I gave up my favorite plan of becoming a farmer on a small scale, and have again en- 
gaged in business which I find will be more troublesome and laborious than I first apprehended." Sub- 
sequently Dr. McDowell returned to Annapolis, where he seems to have resided until 181 7. During part 
of this time he acted as President of St. John's College. There are among his letters two or more writ- 
ten in 181 5 and 1816 and addressed to "Dr. John AIcDowell, President of St. John's College, An- 
napolis, Md," and a letter written by H. Maynadier, evidently a professor, or trustee of the College, 
to "Dr. McDowell, Mercersburg. Pa.," dated September 12. 1816, in which he writes "we shall soon 
have the pleasure of seeing you here among us again, in better health than you left us and in high 
spirits on account of the Federal victory" and "they (the trustees) rely upon the exertions and good 
conduct of Mr. Denis and Mr. Wiley — aided by the assistance your health may allow you to give — to 
bring the institution once more into reputation." These letters seem to show conclusively that Dr. Mc- 
Dowell was again President of St. John's or at least acting as such. The records of St. John's do not 
show that the College had a President from 181 2 to 1820. One authority says Dr. McDowell "was 
again elected principal of St. John's in 181 5, but declined," and again, the same authority says he was 
"twice President of St. John's College, Annapolis." The writer's father, (born in 181 3) repeatedly told 
him that Dr. McDowell was President of St. John's the second time, and that he remembered distinctly 
of the doctor visiting his father, the doctor's brother, during the simimer; riding on horseback from 
Annapolis to the "Mountain Foot" and return. 

.-\ sketch of Dr. McDowell states that "in 1818 he was awarded the degree of D. D. by Union 
College," as does also another authority. This is probably a mistake. The President of Union College, 
in a letter dated April 21, 1811, writes: "I find in the minutes of the Board of Trustees the follow- 
ing record : 'Degree of Doctor of Divinity granted to John McDowell of Elizabeth, N. J., by the Trus- 
tees of L'nion College at their meeting July 21, 1818.' " Dr. McDowell never lived in Elizabeth, N. J., 
but a Rev. John McDowell did live there, and he is most likely the person upon whom the degree was 
conferred. This would have been rather a strange and unusual thing to do — award the degree of D. D. 
to a lawyer and educator, but not a minister, even though he was a" great student of the Bible, and of 
great piety. 

Dr. McDowell had the faculty of making friends and companions of many of his students, some 
of whom corresponded with him as long as he lived. He also exerted a great influence for good over 
the minds of those brought under his instruction. Many of his pupils in "after vears represented their 
States on the bench, while others, who became Governors, Congressmen, and United States Senators, 
received their early impressions from him. 

Francis Scott Key, author of "The Star Spangled Banner," entered St. John's College, November 
II, 1789, and graduated in the class of 1796. He and Dr. McDowell were on terms of intimacy. In an 
appeal to the Legislature of Maryland to aid St. John's College in its time of need. Mr. Key said : 
"Thirty years ago I stood within McDowell Hall with the companions and guides of mv vouth and bade 
farewell to them and our revered instructor, and received the parting benediction of that beloved and 
venerated man. who ruled the institution he had reared and advanced not more by the force of author- 
ity than of affection." Dr. McDowell was a writer of much force, as some of his essays and addresses, 




McDUWELL PLOT IN WADDELL'S GRAVEYARD 
Tlic siiiyle flat stone marks the grave of John McDowell, LL. D., 1757-1820 



still preserved, prove. He said of himself that he was not an orator, his weak voice possibly having 
much to do with this fact. He appears to have had a prosperous clientele when he gave up the law 
for an educational career, and was said to be a good lawj^er and safe counsellor. He was never mar- 
ried. He was a conscientious, consistent, Christian gentleman, his religious character being apparent 
on all his walks of life. In politics he was a Federalist. He was kind in disposition, charitable, and 
simple in his mode of life. By his thrifty management he acquired quite a competency for those days, 
leaving an estate of some forty thousand dollars. He spent the last two years of his life in Peters town- 
ship, near Mercersburg, with his sister, Mrs. Margaret Maris, widow of Matthias Maris, and died at 
her home on December 22, 1820. His remains were interred in Waddell's (later Etter's) graveyard, 
now Spring Grove Cemetery, in Peters township. The following inscription is on the slab over his re- 
mains : "Underneath this marble is deposited the body of John AIcDowell, Doctor of Laws, once Prin- 
cipal of St. John's College in the State of Maryland and later Provost of the University of Pennsyl- 
vania. Distinguished for learning, integrity and piety. Respected by the world, esteemed by his 
friends and beloved by his relatives. He closed a life of useful labours on the 22d day of December in 
the year of our Lord 1820, and of his age the 69th." 

In his will, probated January i, 1821, and recorded in Will Book, Vol. C, p. 516, in Register's 
office, at Chambersburg, Pa., among other bequests is the following : "I give and bequeath to the Uni- 
versity of Pennsylvania, all my Latin and Greek books, all my books on Mathematics and Natural Phil- 
osophy. Among these are, no doubt, many of little value, but there are some, I flatter myself, not un- 
worthy the acceptance of a learned institution." Dr. McDowell was probably the most prominent 
educator and man of letters that Franklin county has produced. 

John M. McDowell 




MmtB l«ri|anan 



/•'^AMES Buchanan, the fifteenth President of the United States, was the second child of James 

^1 Buchanan, a native of County Donegal, Ireland. In 1783, when twenty-three years old, the 

tI elder Buchanan came to Philadelphia; and after a few months became a clerk in the store of 

^£^ John Toms at Stony Batter, at the foot of the North Mountain, near Mercersburg, Franklin 

county, Pennsylvania. Five years afterward he was in business for himself at the same place. 

He was a shrewd business man, with a good English education and a knowledge of men that 
kept him from being deceived in his trading. His place of business was a good one, and he pros- 
pered from the first. Here people from "the West" brought their varied products to exchange for 
salt, cloth, and many other things that older communities could furnish for their needs. These arti- 
cles were brought on wagons from Baltimore, and after the exchange at Buchanan's place were put 
on packhorses for the trip over the mountains. 

In 1788 the young merchant married Elizabeth Speer, whose home was at the foot of the South 
mountain, between Chambersburg and Gettysburg, and for eight years they lived at Stony Batter. 
At this place, April 23, 1791. the future President was born, and here he spent the first five years 
of his life. 

In the autumn of 1796 the family removed to Mercersburg, where, two years later, the father 
started a store. This business,, like the former venture at Stony Batter, prospered greatly, and con- 
tinued to increase until the merchant's death, in 1821. 

After James, the 3-ounger, had received a fair English education, probably from his inother, 
he attended a school in Mercersburg, where he was taught Latin and Greek. The first teacher was 
a student of divinity under the Rev. John King, named James R. Sharon, the next, Mr. McConnell, 
and after him Dr. Jesse Magaw, who later married young Buchanan's sister. 

In the fall of 1807 the young student was sent to Dickinson College. The school, he tells us, 
was without discipline, and he soon fell into the mischievous ways that prevailed among the student 
bod\- ; but being naturally a hard student, he kept up his college work. However, he tells of an 
incident that occurred during the vacation of September, 1808, that made a lasting inxpression upon 
him. While sitting with his father on a Sabbath morning, his father opened a letter just received, 
read it, and with downcast look handed it to the son, and left the room. The letter was from Dr. 
Davidson, Principal of Dickinson College, and stated that, but for the respect they had for the father, 
they would have expelled his son James. Having endured to the end of the term they could not 
receive him again, and wrote to the father to save him the mortification of having the son sent back. 

Young James was greatly mortified, but soon resolved upon what to do. He betook himself 
to the great spiritual leader of the community, the Rev. John King, trustee of Dickinson, and a man 
of great influence in the county. Dr. King lectured the boy gently, and on condition that he give 
his word to behave better at college, promised to intercede for him. As a result, young Buchanan 
returned to college and applied himself with sucH diligence that he was put forward by his Society 
as a sure winner of the first of two honors granted by the school. He, however, believed that his 
Society was entitled to both honors, and had another candidate from his Society put up with him. 

But the authorities gave first honor to his opponents and second to his colleague, leaving Buch- 
anan out entirely. They gave, as the reason for their action, that it would have had a bad effect to 
give an honor to a student that had shown so little regard for the rules of the school as yoimg Buch- 
anan had shown. This so incensed his friends that thev were willing to refuse to take part in the 
commencement exercises; but he would not allow them to do so. In fact, after receiving a kind 
letter from the faculty, he himself took part. 

Of course, the father was given the son's side of the affair ; and his letter is here given for its 
local association and as a human document. 




A SCEXE XEAR THE EAKLV HUME OF 
JAMES BUCHANAN 





THE BIUTHPLACE OF BUCHANAN 



THE OLD SPRING AT BUCHANAN'S BIRTHPLACE 



n 



"Mercersburg, September 6, 1809. 
"Dear Son :— 

■"Yours is a hand (though without date) which niortities us very much for your disappointment, 
in being deprived of both honors of the college, especially when your prospect was so fair for one of 
them, and more so when it was done by the professors who are acknowledged by the world to be the 
best judges of the talents and merits of the several students under their care. 1 am not disposed to 
censure your conduct in being ambitious to have the first honors of the college ; but as it was thought 
that Mr. F. and yourself were best entitled to them, you and he ought to have compounded the mat- 
ter so as to have left it to the disposition of your several societies, and been contented with their choice. 
The partiality you complain of in your professors is, no doubt, an unjust thing in them, and per- 
haps it has proceeded from some other cause than that which you are disposed to ascribe to them. 

"Often when people have the greatest prospects of temporal honor and aggrandizement, they 
are blasted in a moment by a fatality connected with men and things ; and no doubt the designs of 
Providence may be seen ver\- conspicuously in our disappointments, in order to teach us our depend- 
ency on Him who knows all events, and they ought to humble our pride and self-sufficiency. . . . 
I think it was a very partial decision and calculated to hurt your feelings. Be that as it will, I 
hope you will have fortitude to surmount these things. Your great consolation is in yourself, and 
if you can say your right was taken from you by a partial spirit and given to those to whom it ought 
not to be given, you must for the present submit. The more you know of mankind, the more you will 
distrust them. It is said the knowledge of mankind and the distrust of them are reciprocally con- 
nected. . . . 

"I approve of your conduct in being prepared with an oration, and if upon delivery it be good 
sense, well spoken, and your own composition, your audience will think well of it whether it be 
spoken first, or last or otherwise. . . . 

"We anticipate the pleasure of seeing you shovtlv, when I hope all these little clouds will be dis- 
sipated. 

"From your loving and afifectionate father. "J.\mii.s Buch.xnan." 

The young student returned to Mercersburg, where he remained until December, 1809, when he 
went to Lancaster to study law with Mr. Hopkins. Although always a diligent student he describes 
this period of his life as the time when he studied hardest. He says : "I studied law. and nothing 
but law, or what was essentially connected with it. . . .1 almost every evening took a lonely walk, 
and embodied the ideas I had acquired during the day in my own language." He was pleased with 
the law and with Lancaster ; and was encouraged by his parent's letters not only to do his best in study, 
but to guard against all temptations. 

He was admitted to the Bar in November, 1812. The second war with Great Britain had just 
started, and, naturally, his first political speeches were on questions arising from that struggle. 
At that time he was a Federalist, but his poise was such that neither partisan zeal nor prejudice 
carried him from the plain pathway of patriotic duty. In his papers he speaks of a letter received 
from his father in Mercer.sburg, iii which the father tells of a strong Federalistic sermon preached by 
Rev. Eliot, September 12, 1812, who spoke of the war as a judgment.— for what sins the note does not 
say. 

His first public speech to the people was made just after the British took Washington in 1814, at a 
meeting called to adopt measures to hurry volunteers to protect Baltimore. He was one of the first 
to enlist, and his company, under Major Charles Sterrett Ridgely, was the first of many from Penn- 
sylvania for the defense of that city. He remained in Baltimore until honorably discharged. 

In October, 1814, he was elected to the lower house of the Legislature. At this time Philadel- 
phia was threatened, and the chief business of the Legislature was to provide for its defense. The 
question at issue was whether there should be a conscription law, or a business-like volunteer act. 
Buchanan urged that the patriotism of the people could be trusted to provide a defense when the vol- 
unteers were properly ofiicered ; and he gave the fighting on the Niagara frontier as proof. While 
the Senate and House were wrangling over the question, the news of peace arrived. So strongly had 
Buchanan urged a vigorous policy of defense that soon afterward William Beale, a .shrewd and 
powerful Democratic Senator from Mififiin county, came to him and urged him, since he was a Demo- 
crat in all but name, to change his party name and to call himself a Democrat, predicting that if the 



74 mh MntnBbnvQ 



young man did so, he would become President some time, — a prediction often made of promising 
young men, but seldom verified. But the young lawyer was not yet a Democrat in principles. 

From his father at Mercersburg Buchanan received many letters at this time, in which the father 
feared his election to office had taken the son from his law studies and practice at the wrong time, 
hoped the young man would merit the approbation of his neighbors, and "above all to merit the es- 
teem of heaven." February 24, 1815, the father wrote hoping that the Legislature will repeal many 
war measures, and says that that night Mercersburg will be illuminated "in consequence of peace." 

Buchanan was returned to the Legislature October, 1815. Now, the great question was the 
suspension of specie payments. Buchanan was chosen leader of the minority against a proposed law 
to compel banks to pay specie for their notes, under penalty of losing their charters. In his argument 
he showed how the suspension of specie payments was brought about by perfectly natural causes, 
and that for the time the banks should not be disturbed. This debate is mentioned only because it 
was during this fight that Buchanan changed his views on the United States Bank, and became, to use 
his own words, "decidedly hostile" to it for the rest of his life. 

At the end of the session of 1815-16 he left the Legislature to take up his law practice again; but 
he was not destined to remain long out of the public eye. Judge Franklin, of his District, had made 
a ruling regarding the status of militia taken into the service of the LTnited States. The Supreme 
Court of the LTnited States afterward ruled differently, and in the political excitement of the time 
Judge Franklin was tried for impeachment. Buchanan, now in his twenty-sixth year, defended him 
in an address that produced a most profound impression, and which secured the acquittal of the 
Judge. 

About this time the young lawj'er became engaged to Miss Anne C. Coleman, daughter of Rob- 
ert Coleman, Esq., a wealthy resident of Lancaster. She is described as having been a singularly 
beautiful and attractive young woman. After the engagement had existed for some time, in the late 
summer of 1819, Miss Coleman wrote Buchanan saying that it was her desire that he release her 
from it, and, of course, he did so. On the gth of December, while she was on a visit to Philadel- 
phia, Miss Coleman suddenly died. She was buried a few days afterward in Lancaster. Her lover 
was heart-broken, and in a tender letter to the father asking to see the body before burial he hints 
that both she and himself have been victims of the malice of others. It is a shameful commentary 
on the methods of partisan politics of the time that this incident should have found its way into cam- 
paign documents, but such was the case. The estrangement of lovers has never been a strange or 
unusual occurrence; but the coming of death at such times, as in this case, makes a tragedy such as 
threw its shadow over Buchanan's long and useful career. 

In 1820 he was sent to Congress as a Federalist. Federalism then meant opposition to the War 
of 1812, and had little in it that appealed to a young man twenty-nine years old, already a leader in 
his own community. In the same year Monroe was chosen President, almost unanimously, and the 
Federalist National party disappeared. New parties were soon to be formed on the questions of 
finance, internal improvements, and slavery. 

He first took part in debate in January, 1822, on a bill making appropriations for the Military Es- 
tablishment. Opposition to the bill was really an attack on Calhoun, Secretary of War. Buchanan 
defended the Secretary, and was answered sharply by John Randolph, of Roanoke. For a new 
member he took part in many discussions, his views being conservative rather than radical. 

In 1824 he supported Andrew Jackson, and first met the General when sent to ask him, during 
the struggle over the election in the House, whether he had said that, if elected, he would make Clay 
Secretary of State. Jackson arsured him he had made no such promise. After the House chose John 
Quincy Adams, Buchanan, then on a visit to his mother in Mercersburg, wrote a letter to the General 
deploring the outcome of the election in the House and assuring Jackson of the lovalty of his many 
friends in Pennsylvania. In the bitter strife that followed the election Buchanan became one of the 
anti-Adams leaders in the House. Another future President, James K. Polk, was also a leader 
against Adams. 

On the I ith of April, 1826, Mr. Buchanan made a speech on the constitutional position of the 
House in appropriating money to defray the expense of a Panama Commission that brought from Mr. 
Webster the compliment that "The gentleman from Pennsylvania has placed the question in a point 
of view which cannot be improved." In the long and varied discussion of this question he also 




MONUMENT AT STONY BATTER 

MARKING THE 

BIRTHPLACE OF JAMES BUCHANAN 




LOOKING NORTH FROM RIFLE PIT 

Made durins the Civil War. on Little Cove 

Road, showing President Buchanan's 

Birthplace, marked by Monument 



made his first declaration in Congress on the slavery question. He denounced it as a great political 
and moral evil, thanked God that he had been reared where it did not exist, but stated that if slaves 
were freed at that time, in many parts of the South, they would rise against their masters and that 
for the defense of the chivalrous southern race from servile rebellion he would gladly shoulder his 
knapsack. In his tariff debates he was clear and convincing, and stood for a moderate tarifif in the 
interest of the whole country, rather than of a single section. Though an opponent of Adams, he 
gladly supported projects for "Internal Improvements." 

In 1828 Mr. Buchanan was one of the most infiuential Jackson leaders in Pennsylvania, which 
gave the General her twenty-eight votes. He was returned to Congress, where he became Chair- 
man of the Judiciary Committee. His work on this Committee was dignified and able; and some of 
his speeches on the various questions may still be read with profit. He intended to retire from public 
life at the end of this session. His experiences in Congress had given him valuable training in 
constitutional law, and as his professional income was dwindling, he desired to return to his practice. 
But it was not so to be. In the summer of 1831 President Jackson appointed him Minister to Russia, 
the appointment being confirmed early in January, 1832. In March he left Lancaster by stage for 
Washington by way of Baltimore; and on the 8th of April he set sail from New York for Liverpool, 
which place he reached after a voyage of twenty-five days. The pilot who came on board gave the 
passengers the welcome news that Liverpool had no cholera, but that it was raging in Cork and Dub- 
lin. After he was shown about the city, he left by railroad for Manchester. He notes the fact that 
the run from Liverpool to Manchester, thirty miles, was made in one hour and thirty minutes. This 
was over the first stretch of railroad in England. Arriving in London he wrote a long letter to his 
brother. Rev. Edward Y. Buchanan, in which he tells of the show places he visited and speaks with 
due reverence of Oxford Cathedral and Westminister Abbey ; but says that as "places of worship, 
however, they must be very damp and uncomfortable." He also speaks of the troubles of King and 
Church over the Reform Bill agitation ; and, like a good American, prefers the American churches 
to the English State Church system. He requests his brother to forward this letter to his mother at 
Mercersburg. From London he passed by packet to Hamburg, and from there overland to St. 
Petersburg. 

Writing to Jackson June 22, 1832, he speaks of the cold climate, the short summer night, the 
manner of building and heating houses; but adds that the objection an American feels to living in the 
country is not so much physical discomfort as the absence of a free press, due to what he calls "a 
calm despotism." Nicholas he describes as the kindest of despots, and says, "But still he is a despot." 
He speaks of the Empress as having referred in an interview to the troubles with some of the South- 
ern States, and says that the people in Europe expect a revolution every time they receive news of 
such political troubles in America. 

As minister to "the most formal court in Europe," he was compelled to do many things not to 
his democratic tastes. He writes : "Foreign ministers must drive a carriage and four with a pos- 
tilion, and have a servant behind decked out in a more queer dress than our militia generals." 

The chief object of his mission to Russia was to conclude a commercial treaty with that coun- 
try. Russia still adhered to her policy of aloofness ; but with wonderful skill for one of no previous 
diplomatic training, Mr. Buchanan set to work. Against him were all the leading men of the Court 
except Count Nesselrode, the chief statesman, who, as minister in 1814, had signed the agreement of 
the Powers that sent Napoleon to Elba. This great statesman and diplomat became a friend of Buch- 
anan from the first, even giving him suggestions privately as to certain points in the American's pro- 
posals to the Russian government. But even with Nesselrode's help it was no easy task to over- 
come the opposition. It was with great satisfaction, therefore, the American minister learned from 
the Emperor at a levee in December that the treaty would be concluded. For this treaty Mr. Buch- 
anan deserves all the more credit, because he was practically out of touch with his home government 
during the negotiations. 

After the treatv was concluded, he was absent from St. Petersburg for about a month, spent 
mostly at Moscow. Soon after he returned to the capital, on the 19th of July, he received the sad 
news 'that his mother had died, at the home of one of her daughters, at Greensburg, Pa., May 14, 
1833. He had written a letter to his mother on July 3d, and as his work in Russia was almost done, 
he had great hope of seeing her once more. Mrs. Buchanan was buried in Waddell's graveyard a 



76 (^ih MntnBbnv^ 

few miles north of Mercersburg. where her grave and that of lier husband may be seen marked with 
modest stones. 

Mr. Buchanan arrived in America in November, 1833. I" December, 1834, he was chosen 
United States Senator to succeed Mr. Wilkins, who succeeded him as Minister to Russia. He en- 
tered the Senate as a Jackson Democrat. The Senate at that time was hostile to the President, espe- 
cially on the bank question. Webster and Clay led the majority against the President and Benton, 
Wright and King, the Jackson supporters. Of course, the first great party struggle came when the 
President removed the executive officers. Webster and others held that the constitutional right of 
the Senate in consenting to appointments applied also to removals. Mr. Buchanan refuted this in an 
able address: but all agree that his greatest Senate speech was made on the resolution to expunge 
from the record a resolution formally carried by Clay, condemning the President for unconstitutional 
acts in removing the public money from the United States Bank. Air. Buchanan's speech is a strong 
condemnation of that purely partisan thrust of Clay's friends. 

On the abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia he held that, since the District had been 
carved from two slave-holding States, Congress had no constitutional right to abolish slavery there 
any more than it had the right to abolish it in the States themselves. 

On the question of recognizing the independence of Texas, he said he would gladly vote in favor 
of doing so, when Texas had won her independence. 

As Mr. Buchanan had been the defender of Jackson's financial schemes, it became his task to meet 
the opposition of ^^'ebster to Van Buren's sub-treasur\- plan. Both men made powerful arguments 
from their respective points of view ; and while the system has its opponents in our day, it has re- 
mained since Van Buren's time. 

Mr. Buchanan had been re-elected Senator in 1837, ^"d, therefore, was not affected politically 
by the Whig triumph of 1840. Only one man had previously served more than six years as Senator 
from Pennsylvania. He was elected for a third term as Senator; and as the election of 1844 was 
coming on, his friends urged his nomination as the Democratic candidate for President. But many 
of the delegates were pledged to Van Buren and the Pennsylvanian withdrew his name in the interest 
of harmony before the convention met. In a private letter he expressed the opinion that Van Buren 
would be nominated and defeated : but Polk was nominated and elected over Clay on the Texas 
question. 

Polk chose Buchanan as Secretary of State, the man best fitted in his party for the place. The 
new Secretary was at once in the midst of the Oregon controversy and the Texas question. Had 
these questions not kept him in his office ; he certainly would have been made a Justice of the Su- 
preme Court. But he stuck to his post, though with longing eyes on the Bench. The country was 
safely steered through the Oregon difficulty, which many had believed would bring on a third war 
with Great Britain. Even the Mexican difficulty might have been settled amicably ; but Mexico 
refused to receive our Minister Slidell, and war broke out on the Rio Grande. When, during the 
Mexican War, Great Britain made encroachments upon Central America, Mr. Buchanan had Presi- 
dent Polk reassert the Monroe Doctrine in all its old-time vigor; but this course was not followed by 
their successors, and the affair ended in the disgraceful Clayton-Bulwer Treaty. 

In 1850 the Whigs were in power and he had no part in the discussion of the "Great Compro- 
mise" in Congress; but in public addresses and by his pen he urged its passage, and declared that 
the Fugitive Slave Law carried out the spirit of the Constitution. 

At the convention of 1852 Mr. Buchanan and several others were each so strong that the nomi- 
nation went to a younger and less well-known man, Franklin Pierce. In this campaign Mr. Buch- 
anan's chief service to his party was a long and effective speech delivered at Greensburg against Gen- 
eral Scott. 

President Pierce made Mr. Buchanan Minister to England, and he left New York for his post 
August I, 1853, reaching Liverpool on the 17th. When Parliament opened in 1854, there occurred 
the "Court Dress Episode." Secretary Marcy had issued an order that American diplomats should 
appear in the "plain dress of American citizens." The Master of Ceremonies issued a statement that 
when the Queen opened Parliament, the diplomats should wear court dress. Consequently, the 
American Mini.ster was absent at the great ceremony ; and this caused much comment in the papers. 
The Queen soon held her first levee, and Mr. Buchanan informed the Master of Ceremonies that he 




IN WADDELLS GRAVEYARD 

The enclosed plot contains the graves of James Buchanan, Senior, his wife and children. 
The four stones in the distance mark the graves of tlie Dickeys 



=ti 




IX WADDELL'S GRAVEYARD 

The enclosed plot contains the graves of James Buchanan, Senior his wife and children. 
The four stones in the distance mark the graves of the Dickeys 



would appear in the dress he always wore with the addition of a small black dress sword. Though 
he knew he would be received in any dress he chose to wear, he did not expect the very cordial re- 
ception he received. 

As minister he had to deal with Central American problems and the Clayton-Bulwer Treaty. Ow- 
ing to the condition of European politics, England was ready to fight somebody, and he expected 
Palmerston to assume a warlike attitude ; yet, in a private letter to Marcy, Secretary of State, he an- 
nounced his determination not to yield "one iota of our rights." The Crimean War brought up the 
question of rights of neutrals ; and he handled it with the skill of the trained diplomat that he was, 
carefully avoiding all entangling alliances. The war, however, ended all further negotiations regard- 
ing the construction of the Clayton-ljulwer Treaty, and he asked to be recalled. 

But whatever the vicissitudes of official life in London, his social life there was enjoyable. His 
niece. Miss Harriet Lane, had joined him in the spring of 1854, and her letters home are radiant with 
descriptions of receptions, personages, and costumes. While they were in London, Napoleon and 
Eugenie, then in the height of the glory that went out in the Franco-Prussian War, made their fam- 
ous visit to London. Miss Lane returned to America in the autumn of 1855, and Mr. Buchanan in 
April, 1856, when he was accorded a most cordial reception. 

Already the Democrats of his State were putting him forward for the Presidency, and at the 
convention at Cincinnati, without any organized effort on the part of his friends, he was easily nomi- 
nated without pledge or promise. In the election that followed he carried the slave States, with the 
exception of Maryland ; and of the Northern States, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Indiana, Illinois, 
and California. 

The history of the administration of Mr. Buchanan is not within the province of this paper. 
The first three years of it were spent in trying to allay the bitterness engendered by many years of po- 
litical strife, while the last months were spent in dealing with one of those crises which are beyond 
human guidance : but which themselves move men as pawns. By his enemies his administration has 
been bitterly attacked; and it has been most ably defended by his friends; but he himself never 
doubted that the ultimate judgment of his countrymen would do him justice. That he was right in 
this can be seen in our day; and the time is almost at hand when some historian, without partisan 
bias, or thought of the need of vindicating Mr. Buchanan, will write the straightforward history of 
those momentous years. 

When his term of office expired, he retired to his estate, "The Wheatlands," which had been his 
home for many years. It is near the city of Lancaster, and was purchased by him in December, 
1848. Here, with no offices to give, he enjoyed the letters and companionship of his many true 
friends. Soon after his retirement he prepared a defense of his administration and had it published 
about 1865. He even planned a more elaborate work, an autobiography ; but owing to the infirmities 
of old age this latter work was never completed. In the fall of 1861 he wrote a public letter urging 
all loyally to aid in the war "made inevitable by the Confederate attack." 

He was a man of impressive appearance, over six feet tall, broad-shouldered and somewhat 
stout. His eyes were blue, one near, and one far-sighted, which caused a habitual inclination of the 
head to one side. 

He was fond of the society of men and women, and was popular at social gatherings. Not a 
fluent public speaker, he was clear, forceful and convincing. In that Senate noted for its great men. 
he always commanded attention. His personal integrity was beyond the pale of partisan accusation ; 
and he was always ready to aid those in need. 

Reared bv pious parents, he was all his life a Christian man; but not until September 24, 1865, 
did he become a church member. On that day he united with the Presbyterian church in Lancas- 
ter. 

He died June i, 1868. of rheumatic gout, and was buried at Lancaster June the 4th. The fun- 
eral sermon was preached by his friend and spiritual advisor, John W. Nevin. D. D., President of 
Franklin and Marshall College. 

Mr. Buchanan had inherited the business ability of his father, and he left an estate valued at 
$300,000. Little of this, however, was from his salary as President; for, while in office, he insisted 
on paying many bills that Presidents do not usually pay. He also paid the expense of entertaining 
the Prince of \\'ales, although he was really a national guest. 



78 mh MntttBbm^ 

The Buchanan home in Mercersburg was the lower part of what is now Hotel Mercer. The 
property was sold to J. O. Carson, and later came into the possession of the McAfee brothers, who 
refitted it to be used as the McAfee Hotel. Later, a third story was added, and after a few years 
the property was sold to its present owner, C. W. McLaughlin. 

The Dunwoodie farm, in which the elder James Buchanan had taken so much interest, is situated 
about two miles east of Mercersburg on the West Conocheague Creek. In 1863, Jeremiah S. Black, 
without seeing the farm or sending any one to inspect it for him, purchased it from the ex-President 
for $15,624. It is now called "Patchwork" and is owned by Miss Mary Black. 

While Mr. Buchanan's mother was living, he visited Mercersburg from time to time; and while 
he was Senator, 1834-1843, Dr. Theodore Appel says, he frequently visited the town and gave money 
in support of the school. In a letter dated June 24, 1852, he speaks of having visited his native 
county of Franklin a few days before, and of having spent much time in trying to persuade an old 
friend of Democratic faith to vote for Pierce. Tlie friend refused to do so because Pierce had 
been nominated by a convention. In 1856 Mr. Buchanan, with Colonel Samuel W. Black, of Pitts- 
burgh, drove from Bedford to Lancaster. Judge W. Rush Gillan quotes Mr. A. J. Unger as saying 
that the two men left their team at Foltz and walked up to Stony Batter, and that very soon a team- 
ster, who had been up that way, reported that "Jimniie Buchanan" was up there. The man had recog- 
nized the future President from his pictures. After a short reception at Foltz the two men proceeded 
to Mercersburg and later to Greencastle and Chambersburg. It was probably on this same trip 
that he spoke at Colonel Murphy's hotel, now the Mansion House, at a meeting presided over by Cap- 
tain Jack Cushua. 

The storv goes, that while the candidate was speaking at this meeting, some of those opposed 
to him persuaded some boys to call out one of the slanders used against the candidate during that 
campaign. The men of better judgment of both parties were indignant at the occurrence ; and inas- 
much as one of the boys was then profiting by Mr. Buchanan's generosity, it was suggested that the 
aid be withdrawn. But the man soon to be raised to the highest office in his country spurned the pro- 
posal, regarding the incident as the trifle it was. 

As yet there is no biography of James Buchanan suited to the needs and taste of the general 
reader of today ; but when such a book appears, it will be well worth the study of all interested in 
American biography and in the history of our country during the years since the War of 1812. To 
the people of his native State such a book will reveal the courage, strength and ability of him who 
was Pennsylvania's greatest statesman under the Constitution, Franklin County's most noted citizen, 
Mercersburg's most exalted son. John L. Finafrock 




'^-?^_^ Form No. 


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y...^-^'*'-'"''"' 



AIA)' OF SiMlTHFlKLD 

Survey of the tract that William Smith 

purchased of James Black and 

devised to his sons 





EDWARD YOUNG BUCHANAN. D. D. 



?ILHOUETTl-: OF BISHOP WHITE 



^i^'DWARD Young Buchanan was born in Mercersburg, May 30, 181 1, at which time his brother 
JL^ James was a law student at Lancaster. The mother, ever fond of reading, named her young- 
^ ^ est son for her favorite poet. When the boy was eleven years old, his father died, and James 
>i^' Buchanan, twenty years his senior, became almost as a father to him. 

William Buchanan had been sent to Princeton, but Edward, like his brothers, James and 
George, attended Dickinson. He entered the school in May, 1826, and when he left in 1828, held the sec- 
ond honor in his class. In the spring of 1829 he became a candidate for Holy Orders and began to study 
under the Rev. J. H. Hopkins, then of Pittsburgh, but later Bishop of Vermont. In 1830 he entered 
the General Theological Seminary in New York City, and was graduated in 1832. On Sunday, July 
8, 1832, he was ordained a Deacon in St. James church. Seventh Street, Philadelphia, by Bishop White. 
He lived to be the last of all those ordained by that good Bishop, who himself had been consecrated 
to the Episcopate February 4, 1787, in the chapel of Lambeth Palace by the Archbishops of Canter- 
bury and York. 

In 1832 he took charge of Christ church, Allegheny, to enable the Rector, Rev. Sanson K. Bru- 
not, to go to Key West for his health ; and in 1833 he went to Christ church, Meadville. Resigning 
here, he became for a time temporary agent of the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society of the 
church. In 1835 he was made Rector of Christ church, Leacock, and St. Johns, Pequea, Chester 
county. In 1845 he resigned the latter and confined his work to Christ church and All Saints at 
Paradise, the latter a parish which he had originated in 1841. Leaving these two parishes in 1854, 
he went to Trinity Church, Oxford, Philadelphia, and here he remained for twenty-eight years. 

This church, eight miles northeast of City Hall, was built in 171 1, and is the mother of many 
churches in that vicinity. Covered with ivy and embodying the very spirit of the past, it stands as a 
monument to the broad religious tolerance of those early times. For, sixteen years from the foun- 
dation of the Quaker colony, this congregation of the English church worshiped at this place in a 
log meeting house. The first Rector of Trinity was Rev. Dr. Clayton, who founded the Episcopalian 
church in the State of Pennsylvania. 

During the early period of Dr. Buchanan's rectorship at Trinity President Buchanan and his 
niece. Miss Harriet Lane, occasionally visited the church, and on such occasions large crowds from 
the countryside flocked to the church. 

The rectorship of Dr. Buchanan was a successful one, and many improvements to the property 
were made, but the exterior of the church was left unchanged. Dr. Buchanan has been described as 
a "faithful, learned, hard-working priest" of the Episcopal church. He was gentle in life and prudent 
in speech and act ; but he was a man of strong convictions, and courageously stood for the right with 
all the strength and tenacity of his race. 

His sight failing, he celebrated his jubilee in 1882 and resigned his rectorship. After this he lived 
quietly in Philadelphia until his death, January 20, 1895. He was buried in the churchyard of old 
Trinity. In his memory a window and a tablet have been placed in the church where he labored so 
many years. The window is described as a work of art and is an adaptation of Plockhorst's 
"Christus Consolator." The tablet, made of bronze, is placed below the window, and bears this in- 
scription in Old English bas-relief: "In loving memory of the Rev. Edward Young Buchanan, D. 
D., — 1854 — Rector of Trinity Church. Oxford, Philadelphia — 1882. Ordained by Bishop White, and 
for Sixty-two Years a Minister of Christ in His Native State of Pennsylvania, at Allegheny, Mead- 
ville, Pequea, Leacock, Paradise, Philadelphia. Born at Mercersburg, May 30, 181 1; Died at Phil- 
adelphia. January 20. 1895. 'Lord, Thou Hast Been Our Refuge from One Generation to Another.'" 

Dr. Buchanan married Ann Eliza Foster, sister of Stephen C. Foster, of Pittsburg, author of 

79 



80 



mh MmBtshnv^ 



"Old Folks at Home," "My Old Kentucky Home," and other songs. !\Irs. Buchanan died some years" 
before her husband. His daughters, Mrs. A. J. Cassatt and Miss Annie Buchanan, are living in Phil- 
adelphia. 

Born after his brother James left home, Edward Huchanan was not so intimate with him as with 
the brothers George and William, nearer his own age. But these two brothers died early> and 
after 1832 only James and Edward survived. The two brothers, by correspondence, kept in close 
touch with each other; and some of the longest and most interesting letters of the elder brother from 
his various posts of duty are addressed to his brother Edward. Dr. Buchanan was the executor of 
the estate of James Buchanan. John L. Finafrock. 





HARRIET LAXE JOHNSTON 



HARRIET LAXE JOHNSTON 




A ilprtprBburg (Sirl 
IHtBtrpBHDftljP Wytlpl^ouap laSf-iafil 

,^»^^IGHTY years ago there was born in the quaint old village of Mercersburg, a little girl, Harriet 
JL_, Rebecca Lane, the youngest child of Jane Buchanan and Elliott T. Lane. 

T 1^ Harriet Lane was of English ancestry on the side of her father, and Scotch-Irish on that 

^■^^ of her mother. Her grandfather, James Buchanan, settled near Mercersburg, and in 1788 he 
married Elizabeth Speer, a woman of strong intellect and deep piety. 

The eldest child of the marriage was James, the late ex-President. Jane Buchanan, the next 
child after James, his playmate in youth, his favorite sister through life, known as the most sprightly 
and agreeable of a family all gifted, was married in the year 1813 to Elliott T. Lane. Mr. Lane was 
a merchant, largely engaged in the lucrative trade at that time carried on beween the East and the 
West, by the great highway that passed through Franklin county. Harriet spent the first years of 
her life in "Old Mercersburg" in the beautiful home built by her father, near the Town Square. 
Old citizens like Mr. John Hoch and Mr. Thomas Waddell, who were her schoolmates in childhood, 
have passed with her into the Great Beyond, and none are left of those who knew her here. 

We are told she attended Mrs. Young's School, a merry, mischievious girl, never so happy as 
when ringleader of schoolgirl pranks. "In all the counties of Southern Pennsylvania there was no 
comelier and more high-spirited maiden." Inheriting the vivacity of her mother, she overflowed with 
health and good humor. Her Uncle James, then in the prime of life, paid frequent visits to his fam- 
ily in 2\Iercersburg, and the impression which his august presence and charming talk made upon 
little Harriet was deep and lasting. In 1839 Harriet was left motherless and, when, two years later, 
death again entered her home, taking her father from her, Harriet and her sister Mary were invited 
to become members of their Uncle James's home at Wheatland. 

Here it was that Harriet Lane, in her early girlhood, helped to entertain the statesmen who were 
almost constantly the guests of her uncle. The following winter was passed under the care of two 
elderlv maidens at Lancaster, famous for their strict sense of propriety; and her horror at finding 
herself installed in this pious household,, must have been very amusing to Mr. Buchanan._ who was 
never blind to the humorous side of things. He was in the Senate at the time, and Harriet poured 
out her soul to him in childish letters that complained of early hours, brown sugar in tea, restric- 
tions in dress, stiff necks and cold hearts. She was solaced by fatherly letters from her uncle, to say 
nothing of pocketfuls of crackers and rock candy. At the age of twelve she was sent, with her 
sister, to a school in Charleston, Va., where they remained for three years. During this time Harriet 
made unusual progress in music, but the one great event during those three years was a visit to Bed- 
ford Springs, a glorious, never-forgotten time. Next came two years at the convent at Georgetown, 
a school celebrated for the elegant women who have been educated there. Once a month Miss Lane 
spent Saturday and Sunday with her uncle, in whose home she met such men as few young girls 
could appreciate. 

He took pains, however, to restrain her vouthful inclination to plav the role of a belle at ^Wash- 
ington. He was especiallv solicitous that she should not contract an early marriage, saying : "Never 
allow your affections to become interested, nor engage yourself to any person, without my previous 
advice. You ought never to marrv anv man to whom you are not attached ; but you ought never to 
marry anv person who is not able to afford vou a decent and immediate support. In my experience I 
have'wittiessed the long vears of patient misen' and dependence which fine women have endured from 
rushing into matrimonial connections without 'sufficient reflection." It was not long before Harriet 
became a favorite among the voung women of the national capital. Her sagacious uncle admon- 
ished her to keep her wits about her in the gav scenes she would find there, and always to be guarded 

81 



82 (§Ui Mmn&bm^ 

against flattery. "Many a clever girl," he said, has been spoiled for the useful purposes of life and 
rendered unhappy by a winter's gayety in Washington." But it was not until the winter of 1854 that 
she began to attract general attention among the brilliant belles of the Pierce administration, as she 
conspicuously did at the great ball which the Minister from Brazil gave in honor of the birthday of 
his imperial master. 

When Mr. Buchanan was appointed by President Pierce as Minister to England, he was not ac- 
companied by his niece, but she joined him some months later. 

Her first appearance at a drawing-room was a memorable occasion, not only to the young Amer- 
ican girl and her uncle, but to all who witnessed her graceful and dignified bearing at the time. For 
a girl who had never been outside her native land she carried herself through the ordeal with un- 
usual tact and self-possession. Despite her uncle's disposition to simplicity and economy, and his 
constant cautions that she should make no attempts at "display," her fine appearance and her youth- 
ful animation enabled her soon to become a favorite. 

The only time when the dress question seems to have disturbed her was when she had an invi- 
tation to dinner with the Queen while the court was in mourning, and found that she had no black 
dress in her wardrobe, and that it was necessary to get one at a day's notice. At the dinner Harriet 
thought that the Queen, who herself was also still a young woman, and who talked a good deal with 
her, was "most gracious," while Prince Albert was equally talkative with her uncle. "Everything, of 
course, was magnificent," she wrote to her sister. "There was gold in profusion, twelve candelabra, 
with four candles each. But you know I never can describe things of this sort. With mirrors and 
candles all around the room, and a band playing delicious music all the time, it was like fairyland in 
its magnificence." 

At one of the "Drawing-Rooms" in Buckingliani Palace the fair young American, attired in 
pink silk and tulle with apple blossoms, awakened general admiration among the courtiers. On her 
way home with her uncle he remarked : "Well, one would have supposed that you were a person of 
great beauty, to have heard the way you were talked of today. I was asked if we had many such 
handsome ladies in America. I answered yes, and,"' he went on to say, as if he felt it were his duty 
to sprinkle some cold water on the flattery, "manv much handsomer. She would scarcely be re- 
marked there for her beauty." 

During her year's residence in London she enjoyed several marks of both royal and popular es- 
teem. But not the least notable event in which she participated was when her uncle took her, one 
summer day in 1855, to O.xford, where he and Alfred Tennyson each received the degree of Doctor 
of Civil Laws. The poet, then in the prime of manhood, was hardly a more conspicuous figure in the 
august ceremony at the venerable seat of learning than the golden-haired American girl, whose ap- 
pearance the English students welcome with an outburst of cheers. 

It was characteristic of her uncle that when she had returned to the United States he wrote her : 
"Take care not to display any foreign airs or graces in society at home, nor descant on your inter- 
course with royal people, but your own good sense will teach you this lesson. I shall be happy, on 
my return, to learn that it has been truly said of you, 'She has not been a bit spoiled by her visit to 
England.' " Si.x months later, when he took his farewell audience, the Queen expressed a kind re- 
membrance of her, and when he parted with the Marquis of Lansdowne that nobleman exclaimed en- 
thusiastically : "H Miss Lane should have the kindness to remember me, do me the honor to lay me 
at her feet." 

It was only a little more than a year afterward that Mr. Buchanan was called to the Presidency 
of the LTnited States. His bachelorhood caused his niece to be noted with uncommon interest, but her 
season in England had given her complete confidence in herself. Indeed, since the time of Dolly 
Madison there had been few mistresses of the White House who had united to personal charm and 
popularity an understanding of the graces of social intercourse. 

Harriet Lane went into the White House when only twenty-six years of age, with all the exuber- 
ance of health, and with a beauty of face and figure such as no young woman who had been its mis- 
tress had before shown. It was her destiny to be the only maiden that has ever reigned there during 
four years as its social queen. Her public advent into Washington in that role was at the Buch- 
anan Inaugural Ball, which was held in a structure temporarily built for the purpose. Attired in 
a white dress with artificial flowers and a necklace of many strands of pearls around her neck, she 
was a picture of youthful freshness of spirit as she leaned upon the arm of her tall uncle and was 



J''HilM A WIXUOW COKMCK l.\ THiO LA.N'K HUMK. M 101 ;< -Kl ;S1 :l l;( i, I'lO.N NS V 1>\ A.\ I A .\( IW IV 
POSSESSION OF MRS. A. J. CASSATT, OF PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA 



THE BIRTHPLACE OF 
HARRIET LANE 



Now owned by H. S. "Waidlich 




THE ARCHED HALL-WAY IN THE 
HOME OF HARRIET LANE 



escorted by General Jessup in full uniform. Indeed, almost from the beginning, the dinners and re- 
ceptions at the White House, notwithstanding the President's desire not to have "too much fuss," 
gave her a reputation as a young woman of fine manners and strong sense. 

She was very much the modern girl ; but her generation was not educated up to her ideas, and 
the physical exuberance that would have made her a tennis expert and golf champion today subjected 
her to many a mild snub from her conservative guardian. Buchanan was fond of teasing her with 
the tale of how she challenged a young man to run a race, and beat him hopelessly— a most unfemi- 
nine proceeding. Secretly, he was immensely proud of her, but the times did not endorse such vigor. 

Harriet Lane's position in the White House was more onerous, perhaps, than that of any one 
since Martha Washington, for Buchanan had many personal visitors in addition to his official ones. 
.A.t the English court Miss Lane had added experience to her attainments, and was quite equal to any- 
thing her new position might offer, even to acting as hostess to the Prince of Wales. One of the 
entertainments provided for him was a visit to the tomb of Washington, where he did reverence 
most suitably, like the well-bred young prince he was. 

On the way up the river to Washington Albert Edward danced with Harriet Lane on the deck of 
the steamer, and with other girls among her friends. This they all especially enjoved because Mr. 
Buchanan would not permit dancing in the White House. The day closed with a sumptuous dinner 
at the house of Lord Lyons, the British Minister, with the Prince on one side, at the head of the table, 
and Harriet Lane on the other. 

In person, in speech, in carriage and in manner Harriet Lane had the charm of a regal presence. 
She suggested to her countrymen the grand dame of European society more than had any of her pre- 
decessors. Her stature was a little above the average of her sex, her figure moulded in a noble cast, 
and her head firmly poised on neck and shoulders of queenly grace. On public occasions the air of 
authority in her deportment was such that Mr. Buchanan's political followers would sometimes enthu- 
siastically hail her as "Our Democratic Queen," while his opponents would solemnly remind him that 
he would do well to restrain the spirit of royal manners in his household. Her blonde hair, her violet 
eyes, her fine complexion, and the contour of a face and expressive mouth on which the lines of char- 
acter were strongly written, marked her at once as a woman of both charm and power. Her voice 
had the bright musical intonation of a wholesome nature; few English women could surpass her in 
athletic exercises, and no other "Lady of the White House" has since been so widely copied as a 
model in her toilettes. 

It was said that the White House had never been gayer than on the final night of Miss Lane's 
public career as its mistress. All Washington had come to say farewell. The band plaved alternate- 
Iv "Yankee Doodle" and "Away Down South in Dixie.'' Hour after hour the crowd passed through 
the doors until it numbered more than four thousand. Dressed in pure white, the mistress of the man- 
sion was greeted with effusive admiration, and bv many, too, who believed that in looking upon her 
they saw the last woman who would grace the White House, and upon her uncle as its last Presi- 
dent. 

In the winter of 1866 Harriet Lane was married by her uncle, the Rev. Edward Young Buch- 
anan, to Henry Elliott Johnston, of Baltimore, a union which proved ideally happy. Years later, Mr. 
and Mrs. Johnston brought their two sons to Mercersburg, that they might see the birthplace of their 
mother and her family; and always on her return to her native town Mrs. Johnston visited the old 
Waddell graveyard, where the bodies of her ancestors lie buried. Tliat Mrs. Johnston had love for 
the home of her childhood was evidenced by the fact that she gave to Mercersburg .\cademy a por- 
trait of her uncle. James Buchanan, and her last visit to the town was when that portrait was unveiled. 
When she died, in igo,^, she willed that the Buchanan birthplace, land at Stony Batter, be purchased, 
and a monument erected thereon. 

It was a strange irony of Fate that Harriet Lane, so "friended" in her early life, should have lost 
both husband and sons, which left her to pass the evening of life in comparative loneliness, with 
only past glories and beautiful memories for comiianions. 

Our thanks are due the Ladies' Home Journal for courtesy in this sketch. 



iKotljrr nf Spiijainin iJ^arrtsDU 
®nif ntij-tl}irl> JprpsUipnt of Ufc UtiUf i g'tatra 

^■■irHE following sketch is from extracts from "Early Schoolgirls of the Conococheague." 
/-^ Archibald Irwin, son of Archibald and Jean McDowell Irwin, succeeded to the old Irwin 

AIL homestead and the "Irwinton jMills" on the West Branch of the Conococheague. Both the 
^^l^' dwelling house and the mill were built by his father. He married for his first wife Mary 
Ramsey, daughter of Major James Ramsey, who built the mill near Mercersburg, since known 
as Heister's. The elder of the two daughters by this marriage was Jane and the younger Elizabeth. 
Nancy Ramsey, a sister of their mother, married John Sutherland, an Englishman, who lived in Ohio, 
near the home of General William Henry Harrison, at North Bend. The Irwin girls visited their 
aunt, Mrs. Sutherland, in Ohio, when they met the sons of General Harrison, William Henry and John 
Scott Harrison. The result of these meetings was that William Henry Harrison, Jr., came to Irwinton 
Mills in 1824, to wed Jane Irwin. At that time her sister Elizabeth was only fourteen years old. Eight 
years later she married John Scott Harrison, in Ohio. 

In 1889 Benjamin Harrison, the eldest son of Elizabeth Irwin Harrison, became President of 
the United States. Jane Irwin Harrison was mistress of the White House during the brief adminis- 
tration of the first President Harrison, in 1841. The fine old mansion, built of limestone, in which 
these two fortunate women, one of them the mother of a President, were born, is still standing, little 
changed from what it was at the beginning of the Nineteenth century. 

It is said that Jane was one of the most beautiful, as well as one of the most gracious, women who 
has ever presided over the White House. Of Elizabeth, we have this from the pen of her daughter : 
"In regard to my writing anything about our dear mother, I feel I could not do as well as some 
others, as I was only a child of eight or nine when she died. I remember her as an angel in our 
home, a devoted wife and mother. I have never heard anv one speak of her in anv other way. Our 
old nurse has frequently told me of her home life and her mild, yet always firm, control of her children. 
I remember her last visit to the old Mercersburg home- — how her little ones missed her and the royal 
welcome she had on her return." She died many years before her son Benjamin became President of 
the United States. 



84 



IK\VIXT(.iX MILLS 

The birthplace of Jane and 
Elizabeth Irwin 





JANE IRWIX HARRISDX 
Mistress ot the White House. 1S41 



ELIZAHKTH IRWIN HARRISON 
Mother of President Benjamin Harri.' 




Stjnmaa (Hmglj, i. i. 



m 



■HY DO we wish to preserve the memory of those who lived many years ago, whose thoughts 
and ways of life were so different from ours of today? 

Primarily to know what were the forces and principles which made the community in 
which they lived and worked, and what will make for lasting good in our community to- 
day, as well as to help the building for the future. Let us see what part Dr. Thomas Creigh 
took in shaping and developing the life and principles of our town to which he came as a voung clergy- 
man, and in which he lived for almost a half century. 

He was born in 1808 in Landisburg, Perry county, Pennsylvania, the seventh child in a family of 
ten. A quiet, sober-minded boy, gentle and serious, often leaving his playmates to be with his mother. 

When he was twelve years of age his parents moved to Carlisle, Pa., where there were better 
educational advantages, and Dr. Creigh entered the grammar school connected with Dickinson Col- 
lege when he was a boy of sixteen. The year before, the son of the principal, Dr. Mason, died very 
suddenly. He had been a tutor in the school. His father said to the officiating clergyman, the day 
of his funeral, "Say something which God may bless to these students." The "something" said was 
so blessed of God that over one hundred of them united with the church within the year. This 
atmosphere of educating the soul as well as the mind deeply impressed Dr. Creigh and although he 
did not enroll himself among the church members at that time, his mind was so deeply concerned 
with his duty to God that his health failed and he was obliged to leave school until this question 
with his God was settled. He became so possessed with a great desire to be holy and pure, to "put 
on the mind of Christ." that he professed his faith in his Saviour in a very little time and was at peace. 

All who knew him during the rest of his life could truly say that purity was one of his strong- 
est characteristics. When he finished his college course he decided to study for the ministry, at 
first with Dr. Duffield, of Carlisle, and later one year at Princeton Seminary. 

Just before accepting the call to the Mercersburg church, a revival of religion occurred in Dr. 
Duffield's church in Carlisle, in which Dr. Creigh took part. Doubtless this work among the stu- 
dents prepared him to assume the charge of the church at Mercersburg, left vacant by the resignation 
of Dr. Elliott, a difficult position to fill for a diffident, inexperienced young man. 

In those days the pulpit had authority and power. People discussed religious questions and 
were alert to note the orthodoxy of their minister. There v.^ere few books, fewer newspapers, and 
the pulpit was the center and source of intellectual activity. The people of this church were largely 
Scotch-Irish ; sturdy, strong-minded, self-willed, !<nowing what they thought true, and very insistent 
that their ideas should be promulgated. An exceedingly difficult position for Dr. Creigh to fill. 

That he had the wisdom and grace to meet and conquer these difficulties, shows much of the 
character of the man. Quiet, firm, just, sympathetic, strong for the truth, knowing his Bible and the 
principles of the Christian faith, preaching 'them fearlessly, living them sincerely, he soon made his 
way to the hearts of the people, not only in his own church but in the community generally, leaving 
his impress so indelibly that today he is still an authority quoted on many questions. 

He was a devout' student of' the Bible, and made it his duty to see that the young of his parish 
were taught its truths. Meetings were regularly held in different i)arts of the congregation, when 
the children were examined in the Shorter Catechism, and the older people in the Bible. 

For many years Monday evenings were set apart for a Bible study class, held at different homes, 
where there could be a free discussion of the questions of the day in regard to religious thought. It 
was at that time the apparent conflict between Religion and Science was disturbing many minds, par- 
ticularly the young, and his wise words of counsel and fimi faith in the truth of God's word did 
much to confirm the wavering faith of many. 

85 



86 mh MntHBbm^ 

Dr. Creigh was also a firm believer in the education of women, and was one of the promoters of 
Wilson College. He was the first President of the Board of Trustees, and was largely instrumental 
in securing the funds necessary to build and equip the school. 

His sympathy for the poor and oppressed was great and many times, both before and during the 
Civil war, he was called on to use his influence to right the wrongs of some poor colored man. When 
Mercersburg was raided by General Stuart of the Confederate Army, in 1862, several colored men were 
taken captive and carried to Richmond. Dr. Creigh wrote to Dr. Moore, one of the clergymen of 
Richmond, and was instrumental in having these free men sent home. 

Living so near the slave States, there were many and different opinions in regard to slavery held 
by all. Some ministers preached that it was of divine institution, others held just as strongly that it 
was evil and only evil. It was difficult for a minister to be true to his own convictions, yet just and 
temperate in regard to the convictions of others, for the tide of feeling ran high. No one ever criti- 
cised Dr. Creigh in his attitude over the question, for, while opposed to slavery, he was yet lenient 
in his judgment of those who upheld it. "Try to do justice to all, in a loving spirit" was his counsel. 
In his diary during these troublous days, many, many times he wrote, "God give wisdom to do the 
right." "God guide in all thoughts, words and deeds." 

Dr. Creigh was greatly interested in the development of our Western States. Several colonies 
left his church for various parts of Ohio, Illinois and Iowa. He followed them with letters, and, 
knowing their needs, aided them in building churches in their new homes. When he made his visits 
to his son in Nebraska, he visited many of these "children churches," his kindly interest and loving 
counsel being gladly heard and greatly prized. 

Some little idea of the changed conditions in our day and his may be gathered from his visit, in 
1847, to Cincinnati. He went to Clear Spring and Hancock by coach, crossed the Potomac River in 
a skiff, then on to Pittsburg by coach, and down the river to Cincinnati by boat. From Pittsburg to 
Cincinnati was two days' travel, and five days from Mercersburg to his destination. There were no 
railroads, no telegraphic communication, no thought of electricity. Many great events occurred dur- 
ing his life, the Mexican War, with all the changes it brought to our country ; the great question of 
the extension of slavery, with John Brown's raid ; the Civil War and the emancipation proclamation. 
Later, the laying of the Atlantic Cable, the telephone and a few of the wonderful inventions in the 
electrical world. In the literary field, the multitude of books and daily newspapers, while the sewing 
machine, and other labor saving inventions make us wonder how people lived without these, to us, nec- 
essary things. 

I5ut the "things which remain," the things which enter into the foundation of our civilization, the 
purity of life, the sympathy with the oppressed, the uplift of humanity, the belief in God and His 
word, the efficacy of prayer, all these he had, and left their impress on his community. "The noble 
things of mind and heart enriched his life, and left their mark." 

Mary Irwin Creigh. 







THOMAS CREIGH, D. D. 



ExtrartB from Memarml MstaaiBt 
ly ®. 1^. Sobinantt, i. B. 

3T WAS no small tribute to the ability and personal worth of Thomas Creigh, that, at the early 
age of twenty-three, and while still a licentiate, he should be called to be the successor of such 
men as Drs. King and Elliott in the pastorate of Upper West Conococheague church, now Mer- 
cersburg Presbyterian church. 

The day having been appointed for his ordination and installation, he left his father's house 
in Carlisle on the 5th of November, 1831, with great fear and trembling, reaching here the next day. His 
feelings while on the way hither were greatly depressed and cast down, in view of the weighty re- 
sponsibilities which he had assumed. The journey was filled with prayers and cries to God for help. 
Recalling that memorable horseback journey many years after, he writes: "O my God and Father, 
how I cried unto Thee and Thou heardest me ; Why, O why, could I not trust Thee when Thou did'st 
assure me, 'Lo, I am with thee alway, to the end of the world.' Forgive me, forgive, O my Mas- 
ter, my Master." His heart was greatly lightened by the welcome with open arms and loving hearts 
which he received from the people. On the i6th of November, the Presbytery met, concluded the 
examinations preparatory to his ordination, when he was set apart with prayer and the imposition of 
the hands of the Presbytery to the work of the Gospel Ministry, and was then installed as the third in 
a noble line of able and godly pastors of this church. That day, with its solemn consecration and 
holy vows, was never forgotten. 

Happy the people to whom God sends such a consecrated servant of His to be their minister. It 
was with a true consecration of heart that Thomas Creigh entered upon the duties of his holy office. 
The sacredness and solemnity of the step most deeply impressed him. One desire filled his soul : To 
make Christ known and promote Christ's glory. Now began his life work. For forty-nine years he stood 
here as the messenger of God and the guide of this people. His life among you was a living witness 
against the world's general rule of self-seeking. "Not yours but you" might be written on all those 
years of ministerial faithfulness. He was eminently loyal to his own church, yet towards all of every 
name, who loved the Lord Jesus Christ and sought his glory, he preserved a true affection and a large 
charity and commended them to the grace of God. Dr. Creigh was a man of fine personal presence. 
Physically, he was of full manly size, and in his bearing and courteous manners at all times inspired 
respect. He was dignified in his deportment, yet gentle and unassuming. His face was handsome and 
genial and when the whitened locks of age had gathered the glory of years upon his head, and his 
countenance, still ruddy with health, beamed with the love and kindness of his warm and Christian 
heart, all classes paid him the tribute of involuntary homage and admiration. 

In his daily contact with his fellow men he impressed them with a sense of the truthfulness of 
his nature, the kindliness of his heart and the purity of his life. It was a beautiful thing in the char- 
acter and life of this man of God, that he kept his sacred office and all his work undcfiled by any 
traces of a worldly spirit. The spirit of peace ruled in him, expelling bigotry, intolerance and harsh- 
ness, making it painful for him to grieve so much as the heart of a little child. 

He was a man of prayer and of habitual communion with God and spiritual things. This peo- 
ple were on his heart. He baptized all his work among you with prayer. It was evidently a habit 
with him to carry everything to God in prayer. "The love of Christ constrained him." He never 
lost sight of Him, nor sense of Him, and that lifted into high and holy earnestness all his appeals to 
his fellow men. 

And now he is gone, who, for fifty years sat at the feet of Christ and brought from thence God's 
word to you. How often did he preach to you of death, and of Him who is the Resurrection and 
the Life, before he so suddenly passed into that sublime and imperishable life beyond the grave! So 
sudden was his departure that we were stunned and confused by the shock. 

87 



88 mh MntnBbnt^ 

Beloved Dr. Creigh ! Dear man of God ! He was living quite on the verge of heaven. He was] 
permitted to work up to the very last. There was not the loss of an hour. The infirmities of agej 
lay lightly upon him. He was spared, in the great kindness of God, from severe physical prostration! 
and weakness. His mental powers were unimpaired. His thoughts had been gently gathered fori 
months around the coming world. The soft light of the eternal future was falling upon him. His 
earthly cares were set in order. His ear was listening, daily, for the summons of departure. It came 
suddenly. In a moment "the golden bowl was broken and the silver cord was loosed." Without the 
bitterness of death — the spirit passed away. Suddenly, as if, resting for a moment, he leaned against 
a door; unexpectedly it opens, and lo! all beyond is heaven. So passed dear Dr. Creigh! The door 
opened and he was gone to be with Christ. He was ready. The trimmed and burning lamp was in 
his hand. It was not far to go. Nor has he changed his life, his work or his inward self. While he 
was here he lived for God and worked for God and loved God ; and there, too, he is the same man, 
living for God, working for God, loving God still. To God he gave himself long years ago. He kept 
his consecration vows clear and fresh to the last, and now, purified, cleansed from the least taint of 
sin, and glorified, he is still consecrated to Christ and employed in His service. "Blessed are the dead 
who die in the Lord." 



iFirst ^rrfiiiirut of JHarBljall (Collrgp 

AS THE Scotch-Irish people of Mercersburo- had a distinguished representative of higher edu- 
cation in the person of Dr. John W. Nevin, so the German citizenship of the early part of the 
Nineteenth Century looked upon Frederick Augustus Ranch as the ideal scholar of their own 
nationality. 

Dr. Rauch was a native of Germany, and at the age of twenty-four was accorded a full 
professorship in the University of Heidelberg. But on some public occasion he had expressed himself 
too freely on the subject of politics, and he fell under the displeasure of a then very sensitive govern- 
ment. In danger of imprisonment, he fled the countrv and came to America. After teaching music 
and studying the English language for several years, his ability was recognized and he became first 
President of Marshall College, founded at Mercersburg in 1836. He remained President of that in- 
stitution, as well as the guiding spirit of the theological seminary until his death in 1841, at the 
early age of thirty-five years. 

The people of Mercersburg appreciated his presence amongst them. They quickly saw in his 
gentle bearing and refined nature, a man who could enlist the sympathies and affections of a national- 
ity not of his own people. His love of music and intimate knowledge of the German composers gave 
them a new insight into the beauties of the profound and inspiring anthems of the German masters. 

They of the practical life were pleased not only with his learning and piety, but also with his 
ability to grasp practical ideas. In the spring of 1837, ^^ ^" address on education to the students of 
the college and citizens of the town, he uttered many profound as well as practical thoughts. "The 
fortune of our lives" he said to them, "and our government depends not exclusively on useful knowl- 
edge, but on our character as citizens ; and to form this character by cultivating the whole man, is 
the aim of education in the proper sense." 

Dr. Rauch admired the sturdy character and aggressiveness of the people amongst whom he had 
come to dwell. He was stimulated by their good, hard common sense and encouraged by the eager 
manner in which they rallied to the support of the institutions which he was there to represent. He 
was much gratified at the readiness with which they were prepared to join hands with the sponsors 
of the college in the cause of higher education. 

Around about him and his assistants at college and seminary from 1836 to 1841, were gathered 
manv young men. Most of them were sons of German-Americans. In 1840 they numbered 140. 
Many of them found temporary homes amongst the town people. They joined in the social life of the 
community, shared in the gaiety and disputed seriously upon the religious views which the Scotch- 
Irish maintained in accordance with the strict tenets of their faith. Dr. Rauch was the moving spirit 
in all this on the side of the college, and so kindly and unaffected was he in his relations with the 
people, that he retained their warm regard and friendship until his lamented death. 

Dr. John W. Nevin in his eulogy said : "It is so hard for us to understand and estimate proper- 
ly living worth of a moral or intellectual sort, when it is brought home to our very doors. Seen at 
a great distance, in some other literary station, Dr. Rauch might easily have been honored by some 
here as an extraordinary man, to whom he has been all along near at hand only of the most moderate 
importance under any view. Had he lived five years longer, he would have lifted the village, with 
the college, into the view of the whole land. Marshall College has sustained an immense loss in his 
death. For the German church, indeed, in the present crisis in her history, it has seemed to many 
that his life might be held to be indispensable." 

In his lectures Dr. Rauch possessed the rare gift of making difficult things appear easy, at the 
same time adorning them with poetic thought. His lectures on psychology were published in 1840 and 
were enthusiastically received by the most competent critics. The work became a text book in many 
literary institutions. 

Dr. Rauch was buried in Mercersburg, and afterwards his remains were removed to Lancaster, 
where a suitable memorial stone was erected. The name of Frederick .Augustus Rauch ought to be 
placed upon Franklin county's roll of honor, for notwithstanding his youth, he was one of the great 
German-Americans of the Nineteenth century. Linn Harbaxjgh 

89 



I 



(0 



CCUPYING a central position in the great Cumberland Valley, which has been deservedly 
called "Pennsylvania's Historic Gardenspot," is the well known town of Mercersburg. 
Within the memory of people still living it was as to size only a small village ; and while 
Virgil's description of the early Carthage — "magalia quondam" — is scarcely applicable here, 
yet the difference between Mercersburg then and nozu is far more considerable, in every way. 
But suddenly the Franklin county mountain village began to boom, somewhat like many of our 
great Western cities, which a few decades ago, were simply undefined patches of prairie or forest; 
with this difference, however, that Mercersburg's new existence was not of mammon origin or quality, 
backed in its uplift by millions of gold engineered by Captains of industry and Napoleons of finance. It 
was not money, except in very small part and incidentally, that made Mercersburg known far and wide. 
Nor was it some unexpected discovery beneath the soil nearby of precious ores followed by reports in 
newspapers under flaming headlines, exciting in eager minds visions of fortune and all that earthly 
fortune implies, that gave the village a name soon to be known of all men. No, not money, nor any 
great discovery that means money ; but, brains, a real advent of brains, and not in the rough, with mere 
possibilities, like huge boulders of granite or marble, containing within shapeless bulk ideals of ex- 
quisite art ; brains that were forces greater and mightier than all the forces of unconscious nature com- 
bined ; such were the chief assets of the new-born Mercersburg, a name to be pronounced thereafter 
in connection with things vast, intellectual, spiritual, eternal, and pronounced with a true accent by the 
wise and great of all lands. 

Before the advent of Doctor Nevin, Mercersburg had already made a start on the road to fame. 
It had been decided that a college and theological seminary should be established in the mountain vil- 
lage. There must have been reasons back of such a decision which led representatives of the ancient 
and original Reformed Church to thus determine. The place itself, its physical aspects, had much in its 
favor. I remember well when but a child, some years after the beginning of its educational history, 
how enthusiastic persons spoke and wrote of its splendid and charming natural features ; of fertile 
lands with varied hills and plains, overlooked by mountains that could scarcely be exceeded for grand- 
eur, and these forming, as they poetically expressed it, a "natural amphitheater," in the shadow of 
which was the village of Mercersburg, the diamond in that glorious setting, the apple of gold in a 
picture of natural beauty ; and still more and better, here in this newly discovered Attica was to rise 
the Athens, the intellectual capital of America. 

In Dr. Theodore Appel's life of Dr. Nevin there is a Latin poem, an elegy, written by Prof. R. C. 
Schiedt, Ph. D., of Franklin and Marshall College, in which he speaks of the great Doctor as head- 
master and light of the modern Athens. Among the witnesses of his superior greatness given in the 
poem the following is the verse here referred to : 

"Testis Mercersburgensis Schola, Montium Athenae;" 
that is, the school of Mercersburg, the Athens of the mountains, is witness— -and without Nevin in it 
there would not be sufficient reason for decorating the place with the name of the ancient world's most 
renowned seat of learning. 

And yet it should not be forgotten that the great name of Mercersburg was not created by one 
man only. When Dr. Nevin arrived there in 1840, seventy-one years ago, a great educational begin- 
ning had already been made, and Marshall College was even theii known and respected abroad, chiefly 
because its first President, Dr. Frederick Augustus Ranch, had become recognized as one of the most 
learned men of the age. His associates in the college faculty were men of high character and learning, 
and probably no other school of the kind grew so rapidly in the estimation of men whose opinions 
were of real value. 

Such in brief was Marshall College when Dr. Nevin arrived. It was his first meeting with Dr. 
Ranch, of whom he had heard much, and he at once found in him so charming and valuable a com- 

90 



panion that he felt already at home in his new environment. He also found in all the members of 
the college faculty men of ripe scholarship, able to conduct their several departments with distinc- 
tion. 

It is not to be supposed that Mercersburg was wholly indebted for its fame to its becoming the 
seat of these institutions of learning, and to the presence in them of some of the most renowned men 
of that day. Its inhabitants were of that order of intelligence fully able to appreciate such an ad- 
vent to their community. And the greater Mercersburg of today, while owing immensely to Marshall 
College and the schools of learning that have come after, is indebted also to the character and enter- 
prise of its early inhabitants. 

A brief account of Dr. Nevin's early life may reveal much of the secret of his remarkable celebrity 
in later years. He was born February 20, 1803, in Franklin county, near the Cumberland county 
line. His father, John Nevin, was a farmer, who had graduated with high honors from Dickinson 
College, sharing equal honors with Roger B. Taney, who became Chief Justice of the United States. 
In a family of six sons and three daughters John Williamson was the eldest. Their father was 
not only a man of education, he was also a sincere Christian, a faithful and active member of the Presby- 
terian church. He and his excellent wife brought up their children in the Christian faith, all of whom 
followed the pious example of their parents. Mr. Nevin also (a very rare thing on a farm) pre- 
pared his sons for college, and so thorough was his preparation that his boys were fully abreast of 
their compeers in their classes. At the age of fourteen John entered Union College at Schenectady, 
N. Y., from which he graduated at eighteen. Two years later he became a student of theology at 
Princeton, N. J., graduating at the age of twenty-three. 

Perhaps the greatest difficulty a theological student has to encounter is the Hebrew language, and 
very few become good Hebrew scholars. They are seldom expected to read more than a few chap- 
ters in the Hebrew Bible during the three years' course; but young Nevin successfully undertook the 
task of reading and studying critically every word in Old Testament Hebrew. Very soon after his 
graduation. Dr. Charles Hodge, Professor of Hebrew at Princeton, left for a two years' absence, in 
Germany, when Mr. Nevin, only four years out of his teens, was at once selected to take Dr. Hodge's 
place until the latter's return. So ably did he fill this learned position that on Dr. Hodge's return to 
Princeton, young Nevin was called to the Professorship of Hebrew and Old Testament studies in the 
Theological Seminary of the Western University at Allegheny. During the two years he filled Dr. 
Hodge's chair at Princeton he also wrote a complete work, in two volumes, on Biblical Antiquities, a 
work that became very popular in our own country and in Great Britain. He remained at Allegheny 
ten years, often doing the work of other departments outside of his own, as he was equally well versed 
in all branches of the theological course. He was there considered by far the ablest man in the 
faculty, and his fame was in the ascendant, as a new and brilliant star, until, at the age of thirty- 
seven it seemed to have reached a point it could not exceed. But just then a movement began which 
proved that for him the supposed limit was only a turning point in his still ascending fame. 

It was in the year 1840 that the Reformed Church gave Dr. Nevin an earnest call to teach the- 
ology in the Seminary at Mercersburg. After due consideration he accepted the invitation. This 
was the beginning of the second great part of his life's work. He entered a church that was a lineal 
descendant of the original Reformed Church of the Si.xteenth century, and he felt more in his element 
than ever before, with a wider scope for some lines of thought than he had previously enjoyed. 

Dr. Nevin's fourteen years at Mercersburg were the classic years of his eventful life. Associated 
as he was with that remarkable man. Dr. Ranch, he had stepped into a new world of thought, and the 
contact was mutual — two men of different nationality, temperament, and outward personality, yet in 
perfect agreement in all that pertained to the truth which alone makes men free, and uniting their mighty 
intellectual and spiritual forces in the glorious work of uplifting and saving our fallen race. 

Dr. Ranch was a German, and a scholar such as even Germany, the world's great storehouse of 
learning, produces only at intervals. Dr. Nevin was an American of the .Americans, but of Scotch- 
Irish and English blood of the very best quality. Ranch had become a master of English, and Nevin, 
even before coming to Mercersburg, had acquired a thorough knowledge of the German language and 
a large part of its literature ; nothing seemed to be lacking to make the two men congenial co-workers 
in the great cause of education. Both were most eminent philosophers and theologians. Of great use 



92 mh MmnBbm^ 

to each other, thev therefore became all the more useful as teachers. Dr. Rauch's perfect knowledge 
of German thought and literature was acquired by him as a native, therefore he could open the wide 
fields of German philosophy and theology to the learned American, to whom the vast areas, in won- 
drouslv brief time, became as familiar as to one born and reared in them. 

This delightful companionship continued only one year, when the two kindred spirits were 
separated by the death of Dr. Rauch. But a single year's companionship of two such men is of 
countless worth, and its rich results are for all time. 

Thus Dr. Nevin, although residing in this rural nook, was in reality a cosmopolitan, holding 
communication and fellowship with men of renown in the world's great centers of learning, while 
Rauch, at the very beginning of mature manhood, passed away, to live on in living epistles, whose chil- 
dren and children's children are walking in the same light. 

Dr. Nevin now became President of Marshall College, and held the position for twelve years, 
when the college was removed to Lancaster. 

A few years later Dr. Philip SchafY came from Berlin. Germany, to j\Iercersburg, to take charge' 
of the school of theology ; church history being his special department. He, too, was a man of great 
learning, and soon became famous. He had a literary knowledge of the English language, and in a 
brief time could speak it fluently. Most of his books (which were numerous) he wrote in English — 
and his English is a marvel of purity, elegance and perspicuity. 'While at Mercersburg, he wrote the 
first volume of his Church History and some other works; and the two illustrious names, Nevin and 
Schaff, were habitually spoken in a single breath, as if the two were one. But of Dr. SchafT some 
other writer will doubtless speak. 

When Dr. Nevin became President of the college, he continued to teach theology until his tempo- 
rary retirement. His distinguished work and achievements as head of the college soon gave the insti- 
tution reputation and name. But it was chiefly as teacher of theology that he became known to the 
learned part of the religious world, at home and abroad. The celebrated Dollinger (at whose feet 
Americans, already known as men of high scholarly attainments, sat, having crossed the ocean to hear 
his learned lectures) declared that Dr. Nevin was the greatest theologian in America ; and he care- 
fully preserved Nevin's writings as productions of the highest value. In England he was held in 
equal estimation by her greatest theologians, with some of whom he had literary and friendly corres- 
pondence. A noted European linguist, traveling in America, said he must see Dr. Nevin, as he heard 
his name spoken in almost every learned circle, especially in Germany, and that, judging from what 
he had heard. Dr. Nevin must be one of the greatest men living. The two men met ; the foreigner said 
afterwards : "I now know more about Dr. Nevin than all those theologians and sages put together ; 
/ sazt/ and heard him!" 

In the year 1844, at the age of forty-one, he wrote and published his remarkably learned work, 
"The Mystical Presence." Dr. Ebrard, well known as one of the most eminent scholars of Germany, 
wrote an exhaustive and highly favorable review of the work, and congratulated America on having 
at least one theologian fully abreast with the richest thought of Germany. Wilberforce, Bishop of 
London, pronounced "The Mystical Presence" the greatest work of its kind ever written. There 
were, not strange to say, severe criticisms from various quarters, but all such forces combined could 
not shake a leaf of the tree grown to maturity from the soil of Truth, as apprehended by a mind that, 
like St. Paul's, was "the mind of Christ." 

This work may be regarded as the beginning of what has been called "Mercersburg Theology." 
It claimed to be simply the theology of the New Testament. To it all Christian beliefs appealed ; it 
was a question then of interpretation. In the course of the ages, after the completion of the New 
Testament Scriptures, some important doctrines, owing to various human conditions, were misappre- 
hended, and the misapprehensions became fixed in the general Christian mind. So that, while the sev- 
eral parts of the teaching by Oirist and the apostles were infallibly true, it did not necessarily follow 
that their apprehension by the church would be always and in every case without error. It is simply 
a fact that erroneous views obtained in every period of Christian history, not only in the "dark ages," 
but long before and since, in Protestantism as well as in Roman Catholicism. Hence the profound 
significance of Dr. Nevin's idea of "historical development." and the duty of theologians to sound 
anew the depths of divine revelation. This Dr. Nevin did, and the results of his investigations seemed 



mh MtmvsbntQ 93 

to men of receptive minds the opening of a new age in Christendom — an age of Christian manhood, 
and of the clearing away from the minds of thinking men the cobwebs of centuries. 

During the same period Dr. Nevin vigorously attacked the largely prevailing system of opera- 
tions in the churches known as "new measures," a system that usually developed into wild religious 
fanaticism, far away from the teachings of Christ and the apostles. For this he was severely criti- 
cised, even by some in the historical Protestant denominations, who, however, in after years publicly 
acknowledged that he was right and themselves wrong. 

Then came the "]\Iercersburg Review," first as a bi-monthly, later as a quarterly. Through it 
Dr. Nevin spoke more fully than ever before, and his voice was heard at home and abroad — a voice 
with no uncertain sound. From 1849 to 1853 the leading articles were written by him, and they con- 
stitute the chief Nevinian classics. It was these that Dr. Dollinger spoke of to some American stu- 
dents, saying they contained the best and most profound theological wisdom that came to him from 
America. And today, after all the hard utterances against them in various American quarters, those 
same quarters are alive with the sentiments once so fiercely opposed, and the very terminology used 
by Dr. Nevin is employed there as freely as were formerly the mummified shibboleths of a long reign- 
ing American Puritanism. 

Mercersburg is justly proud of having been the residence of some of the world's most illustrious 
men, of whom Dr. Nevin was undoubtedly the most eminent — like Diana, of whom it is said, "dcas 
sitpcrcminet oiniics." Of great civilians there was one whose fame as a learned statesman, diplomat, 
lawyer, and President of the United States (spoken of as Pennsylvania's favorite son Sage of 
Wheatland, the pride of Franklin county), was bounded only by the limits of civilization — James 
Buchanan, born near Mercersburg. That great man was one of Dr. Kevin's most ardent admirers 
and considered him the equal of any man living. Dr. Nevin's knowledge was so comprehensive that 
he might truly be called a universal genius. Like Zwingli and Calvin he was a statesman as well as 
theologian and philosopher. During the Civil War, or soon after, he was asked to make an address 
before a political State Convention, and consented to do so. A brilliant literary gentleman, who heard 
the address, declared that, though every word was delivered extempore, it was fully equal, if not su- 
perior, to the most philosophic and elaborate orations ever written and spoken by one of the greatest 
statesmen of the time, William H. Seward. The address was not partisan, and the favorable comment 
upon it by men of all political creeds proves that reasonable civic doctrine is far more acceptable, 
even in this land of parties, than the smartest special pleading of stump oratory. 

But of all Dr. Nevin's great possessions, his Christian character was the greatest. The terms 
theorist and doctrinaire do not applv to him. He sought for the best knowlege attainable of the Truth 
to which his Lord and Master bore witness; and by that his whole life was formed. Like St. John he 
listened to the Master's beating heart, so that like him he was able with an eagle's eye to pierce 
every cloud between earth and heaven, and like him, when occasion called, he was a "son of thunder," 
before whom all opposition melted away. 

His theology, therefore, was not confined within the narrow limits of conventional orthodoxy or 
tradition ; it was a living and ever expanding theology, and hence that vigorous idea of historical de- 
velopment which he insisted upon as absolutely necessary in the nature of things ; and without which 
evangelical Protestantism itself would have no right to exist. 

The people of Mercersburg, and others equally interested, do well to honor the early educational 
history of the town, and thus waken up joyful memories of a glorious past. Although, be it well un- 
derstood, its later history is no less honorable in every way, and that the "Athens of the mountains" 
has not fallen into ruins. 

Nevinus ! Ille est gloria saeculi 
Et flos amoenus milium Americae ; 
Doctisimusque vere in oris 
In quibus ille bona acta fecit. 

Quum siderum turmae procul in nihil 
Profugerint ; quum Lunaque non erit ; 

Et igneus cum sol erit non ; 

Tunc erit, en! etiam Nevinus! 

Abner R. Kremer 



(UratU (Smn, M. i.. HM. i. 

^^■rRAILL Green, M. D., LL. D., was born, Easton, Pa., May 25, 1813, and died there April 29, 
/■4\ 1897. He graduated in medicine at the University of Pennsylvania in 1835. Professor in La- 
11 I fayette College, 1837-1841 ; Marshall College, 1841-1848; Lafayette College the second time, 
^^^ 1848-97. He was a member of many learned societies, and was the author of numerous 
treatises on scientific subjects. 

"While Professor of Natural Sciences in Marshall College, Dr. Green did not practice medicine 
but was the medical counsellor of the students, and his advice was often solicited in important cases 
in the town. Though chemistry was his favorite study, he was an excellent botanist, and his students 
accompanied him on many long walks among the mountains." 

He possessed the rare faculty of interesting children, and gave lavishly of his time and strength 
to Sunday school work. Beside superintending the Reformed school in the morning, and working in 
the Presbyterian church, of which he was a member, in the afternoon, he delivered weekly lectures, and 
was active in promoting the annual Fourth of July picnic gotten up for the benefit of all the schools 
of the town and neighborhood, and to "celebrate the day with appropriate religious exercises." At the 
picnic of 1844 Dr. Green made the address to the children and dismissed the procession in the Diamond 
upon its return to town. Three hundred and twenty-five copies of the hymns were printed for this oc- 
casion. 

Great sorrow was felt over Dr. Green's departure from Mercersburg, and when lie returned to 
attend a reunion, in 1886, he found warm friends and a cordial welcome awaiting him. 



®tj0ma0 Qlnnrab fttvtn i. i., I2SI- !• 

"Thomas Conrad Porter, D. D., LL. D., was born January 22, 1822, at Alexandria, Pa.; died at 
Easton, Pa., April 27, 1901. Graduated at Lafayette College and studied theolog}' at Princeton. Pas- 
tor Monticello, Ga., 1847; Second Reformed Church, Reading, Pa., 1848-49: First Reformed Church, 
Easton, Pa., 1877-84. Professor Marshall College, 1849-53 ; Franklin and Marshall College, 1853-66; 
Lafayette College, 1866-1901. A distinguished botanist and voluminous author." A memorial of his 
life was published by his son-in-law. Dr. Samuel A. Martin. 




94 




TUAILL GKEKX. XI. Ii., I.L. D. 



THOMAS CONRAD PORTER. D, D., LL. D. 




pijiltp ^rljaft i. i.. SSI. i. 

PHILIP Schaff spent twenty of the best years of his Hfe on Seminary Hill. He used to say, 
"I am a Swiss by birth, a German by education and an American by choice." The years he 
spent in Mercersburg were not only important for the work he accomplished during that time, 
but also as a preparation for labor in those wider relations he sustained in the last period of 
his life, spent in New York. I refer more especially to his services for the reunion of Qiris- 
tendom and as President of the American Committee on Bible Revision. 

Dr. Schaf? was born in Chur, in the eastern part of Switzerland, January i, 1819, and died in New 
York City, October 20, 1893. There were three easily distinguished periods in his career — the years 
of his preparation spent in Europe, 1819-1844; the years spent in Mercersburg, 1844-1863; and the 
years spent in New York City, 1863-1893. 

Left an orphan by the death of his father, he was obliged from an early age to depend upon himself 
for su]iport. He was precocious as a child, and early manifested high ambitions. Friends recognized 
his ability, and, in 1834, he left his native town and journeyed on foot to Kernthal, in Southern Ger- 
many, which was noted both as a religious community and for its boys' school. One of his sons, 
Schley, attended the same school fifty years later, from 1867-1869. From Kernthal the young Swiss 
passed into the Gymnasium, or Latin school of Stuttgart, making there two friendships which were con- 
tinued in America and remained close for life. One friend was William Julius Mann, who became a dis- 
tinguished divine of the Lutheran church, and came to Mercersburg at Dr. Schaflf's suggestion, 1845- 
He was afterwards pastor of the principal Lutheran church of Philadelphia, and later professor in the 
Lutheran theological seminary at Mt. Airy. The other friend was Gustav Schwab, a highly re- 
spected merchant of New York City. Mr. Schwab's father was the great Southern German poet, 
Gustav Schwab, and it was in his church, for he was a pastor also, that Philip Schafif, as a university 
student, preached his first sermon. It was characteristic of Dr. Schaflf that he retained the friendships 
of his early life, and in his frequent visits to Stuttgart and other German cities, as well as in other 
lands, he was accustomed to revive and rebind these old ties. In other ways he retained his close con- 
nection with the associations of the past, as for example when he delivered one of the addresses ill 
Kernthal, in 1869, at the fiftieth anniversary of the foundation of that community, also often preached 
and made public addresses in Stuttgart on the American Sabbath and the Evangelical Alliance. In 
Stuttgart he founded its first Sabbath school, and must be regarded as one of the originators of the Sab- 
bath school system in Germany. 

The course at the Lfniversity followed ; first at Tiibingen and then in Halle and Berlin. In all 
three seats of learning he came into close personal contact with the Professors, some of whom were 
among the most distinguished theologians of the last century, such as Dorner, Tholuck, Julius Miiller, 
Twesten, and Neander, the eminent church historian. He was much in Tholuck's home and acted for 
a time as Neander's amanuensis. The blank books in which, in his student years, he took his notes 
of lectures are still extant; the handwriting very small, but clear and neat. He continued to write a 
beautiful hand till he was disabled the last year of his life by a stroke of paralysis. A little book, 
written at the LTniversity of Berlin when he was twenty-two, on the Sin agaimt the Holy Ghost at- 
tracted a good deal of attention. 

After travelling for a year in Italy, and spending a winter in Rome — where he had an interview 
with Pope Gregory XVI — in company with a young German, Baron von Krocher, Schaff returned to 
Berlin, 1842, as a teacher (docoit) in the University, and gave courses of lectures. But it was not the 
will of Providence that he should remain in Europe. His first childish ambition, as he said, was to be 
a soldier. Then he wished to be a poet, and some of his early poetical eflfusions are still extant, but he 
savs, "As soon as I woke to the paramount importance of religion, I chose the ministry." He never had 

95 



% Mh MtmvBhttVQ 

any idea of coming to America until a commission, sent by the German Reformed church to secure a 
German Professor for the Theological Seminary in Mercersburg, arrived in Germany, 1843. The 
committee consisted of Rev. Theodore L. Hoffeditz and Dr. Benjamin S. Schneck. They were unsuc- 
cessful in inducing Dr. Frederick W. Krummacher, then one of the most powerful of living preachers, 
to accept the place. At the advice of a number of distinguished Professors, they then turned to 
young Schafif. They were attracted to him on account of his scholarly attainments, and no doubt, 
also, on account of a certain love of freedom and adaptability which he inherited with his Swiss nature. 
Dr. Schaff's acceptance of the call proved to be of the utmost importance for his sphere of usefulness. 
Writing years afterwards of this step, he said, "Had I remained in Europe, I would have had a more 
comfortable literary life and perhaps accomplished more in the line of mere scholarship. But my 
activity in America has been more stirring, more practical, and, I hope, also, more useful than it could 
have been in Europe." 

The young Professor caught sight of America for the first time July 28, 1844. He traveled leis- 
urely through Pennsylvania, stopping at Easton, Harrisburg, and other places, and was met in Chambers- 
burg by a delegation of students, George W. Aughinbaugh and D. A. Wilson. Accompanied by them 
and by Dr. Schneck, he first saw Mercersburg from Prospect Hill on the evening of August 12th. 

The buildings of the Academic department were brilliantly illuminated, and a large concourse of 
citizens, students, and visitors had come together to give welcome to the young stranger. Forming in 
procession, they marched up Seminary street to the college and seminary buildings on Seminary Hill. 
Over the gateway to the campus an arch of evergreens had been thrown. Addresses by the students 
in English and German were delivered. In his reply, Dr. Schafif passed from the scene which had 
greeted him as he looked down upon IMercersburg and the amphitheatre of mountains, back to Switzer- 
land and Germany ; expressed the feelings which had moved him to cross the ocean ; and made a fore- 
cast of the teaching which Mercersburg should stand for. It is exceedingly characteristic that he at 
once, in this first public utterance in his new sphere of activity, indicated the free spirit in which Ger- 
man theologv should be adapted to American needs. Speaking in German he said : 

"Here the profound ideas and thorough knowledge which the German mind brings forth in the 
sweat of the brow from the depths of eternal wisdom, must render tribute to the practical aim of 
the religious life. They must be delivered from a one-sided speculative interest by the practical spirit 
of the American people and be transmuted into conduct and life, and so help to completely reconcile 
thinking with living, the ideal with that which is real, the invisible with that which is seen." 

Dr. John Williamson Nevin was at that time a professor in the Seminary and Dr. Schaff was 
called to co-operate with him, as Professor of Church History. Dr. Benjamin Bausman, who saw the 
young Swiss that year, 1844, has described him "with black hair and a face as fresh and florid as an 
Alpine rose ; in his conversation speaking with his whole body, abounding in gestures, graceful and un- 
studied. His cordial greeting, his smiling face, his lively chat soon put me, an awkward, shy, countrv 
boy, at my ease." For the next twenty years Dr. Schaff trained class after class in the seminary, and 
engaged in literary work and the hardest study. He occupied the residence north of the Seminary 
building, his study being the southwest room on the first floor. In December, 1846, he was married to 
Mary Elizabeth Schley, of Frederick City, Md., by Dr. Zacharias. Of a vivacious temperament and 
domestic tastes, she proved an excellent wife, surviving her husband nine years. She was a warm 
friend of the students and made them welcome at her home. Their children, eight in number, were 
all born on the Hill, Anna, Anselm, Willie, David Schley, Meta, Philip, John and Mary. Anna died in 
infancy ; Willie, in his third year, after a painful sickness following an operation for a chestnut hull 
which the child had swallowed. His case awakened wide sympathy. Philip died in New York at the 
age of seven, of typhoid fever, and John at the age of nine, in consequence of a fall from a tree. 
Meta. a beautiful and most accomplished girl, in 1876, at the age of twenty, died from typhoid fever. 

Dr. Schafif might be seen day after day riding on horseback for exercise. He preached in the 
country round about, he romped with his children, he engaged hilariously in the picnics on the Fourth 
of July at Buchanan's birthplace. During the war he took a decided position on the side of the 
Union, made addresses in favor of the Union cause, and during Stuart's raid Rebel pickets were 
stationed at his front gate, and he only escaped being taken prisoner by being absent from home. 

His labors and interests were extended far beyond the locality in which he was placed. He went 
to and fro among the German Reformed churches in Pennsylvania and Maryland, sought a wider ac- 
quaintance among the Presbyterians, Congregationalists and other Christian leaders from New Eng- 



I 




PHILIP yCHAFF. D. D., LL. D. 




THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY OF 
REFORMED CHURCH. MERCKRSBURG. 

1836 



GERMAN 

PENNSYLVANIA, 



land to Pittsburgh and Chicago. Interested as he was in scenery and art, it was a marked feature of 
his career that, wherever he went. East or West, he sought out men, so that, when he died, it was 
said that probably no American scholar knew well so many American scholars, and no German so many 
German scholars, and no Scotchman so many Scotch scholars as did he. Called to teach theology 
through the medium of the German, he soon discovered that it was a mistake to attempt to do this, 
and that it was also impracticable, as few of the students knew German. He had been here only a year 
when, in an address before the Goethean Society, he advocated that it was unwise and unpatriotic to 
attempt to continue the use of German by the descendants of German immigrants in this land. It was 
evidently the purpose of Providence that America should be one people and speak one language. This 
attitude brought upon him much obloquy from Germans in different parts of the country, and he was 
declared in more German newspapers than one to be a traitor to the land of his birth. But time has 
proved that he was right. As for his use of English, he became master, not only of an idiomatic, but 
of an exceedingly clear style; a fact which has been recognized by all critics of his writings. In the 
attainment of facility in the use of the English tongue, much was due to Mrs. Schaff, who insisted 
upon him speaking English in the family, for although Dr. Schaff, after his marriage, began with much 
ardor to teach her German, she soon gave it up, declaring that "We are in America and must do as the 
Americans do." Mrs. Schaff's own ancestors were Germans, the first of them in this country, John 
Thomas Schley, settling in Maryland, 1735. 

Dr. Schaff's influence not only radiated out from Mercersburg through his students. His name, 
also, attracted the attention of the theological world to the town, and the feet of a number of theol- 
ogians and visitors, from abroad and at home, such, for example, as the celebrated Theodore Flied- 
ner, in 1851. 

His first book which gave him a settled reputation as one of the foremost living church historians, 
the History of the Apostolic Church, appeared in JNIercersburg in 1851 ; the type being set up in part by 
his own hands. It appeared in German and was the last attempt which Dr. Schaff made to create a 
German-speaking school of theology in America. Later it was translated into English and published 
in New York and Edinburgh. A German edition also appeared in Leipzig. He took a part of first 
prominence in preparing the liturgy of the German Reformed Church, being chairman of the Com- 
mittee. He prepared the first meritorUis German hymn book published in America, a book still in use, 
and he wrote a catechism. His health breaking, he spent the year 1855-56 in Europe, and in courses 
of lectures delivered in Berlin, Bremen, and other leading German cities, he described American man- 
ners and institutions and set forth their spirit, boldly advocating in hostile atmosphere the principle 
of the separation of Church and State. On another visit in 1865 he addressed audiences against slav- 
ery, and upheld the course of the Northern States during the Civil War. In 1854 he received the 
title of Doctor of Divinity from the University of Berlin, and in 1888 from the University of New 
York and of St. Andrews, Scotland. 

The confusion produced by the War and the constant invasions and danger from invasion to 
which Mercersburg was exposed, tended to the disorganization of the Seminary. It was under these 
circumstances, and seeking a field where there was more scope for his powers, he removed to New 
York City, in December. 1863, under appointment as Secretary of the American Sabbath Committee. 
With all the energy and warmth of his being, he threw himself into the cause of upholding the old 
American Sabbath against the Continental laxity due, especially, to the large influx of Germans in the 
forties and fifties. With the broad tendency of his mind, he plead the cause far beyond the city of 
New York and helped to organize the movement in other cities. In 1870 he was made Professor in 
the Union Theological Seminary, New York City, which he found a congenial sphere of labor until his 
death. 

During these years, from 1863 to 1893, Dr. Schaff took a leading part in some of the great eccle- 
siastical movements of the time. He was the most prominent personality in bringing about and con- 
ducting the great Conference of the Evangelical Alliance in New York, 1873, which brought to this 
country bv far the largest number of foreign scholars which up to that time had met on this continent. 
He was indefatigable in his effort to develope the spirit of unity among Christians of all communions, 
and was recognized as one of the chief advocates of his day in that good cause. 

A peculiar honor came to him in his selection in 1870 by the English Committee for the Revision 
of the Bible to be the organizer of the American movement. He selected the original American Com- 
mittee of Revisers, and remained the President of the Committee till the work of translating the Bible 



98 (§Ui MnnvBbnt^ 

was completed, in 1885. It has been said on the highest authority that to him, his prudence, and the 
respect in which he was held in Great Britain, as well as among American scholars, was due more than 
to any other cause the continued co-operation of the English and American committees. His name 
will therefore be known so long as the Revised Version is read, and succeeding generations seek to 
know the history of its production. Dr. Schaff also aided in forming the Alliance of the Reformed 
churches holding the Presbyterian system, and was especially asked by the Committee of arrange- 
ments to make the first address at the first meeting in Edinburgh, 1877, for, "a man is needed to put 
life into our operations and you are the man," as Professor Blaikie wrote. He attended conference 
after conference of the Evangelical Alliance and the Presbyterian Alliance, always taking an interested 
part in their proceedings, in Belfast, Copenhagen, Florence, Philadelphia, and other cities. 

To these public labors Dr. Schaff added the most unwearied toil in his study, publishing volume 
after volume which were accepted as contributions of high merit in their departments. He also went 
to Europe again and again, making his second trip in 1865, but almost always utilizing the trip for 
the promotion of some general cause such as the Evangelical Alliance or Bible Revision. His last 
public service was a month before his death, in 1893, at Chicago, when he listened to the reading of a 
paper at the Columbian Exposition on Church Union which he had written. A stroke of paralysis 
the summer before at Lake Mohonk had in part disabled him, so that he would not present the paper 
with his own voice. The strenuous effort to which he put himself in going to Chicago, and seeing all 
it was possible for any man to see there in a given time, probably hastened his death. To a man of 
so great energy, it was next to impossible to think of his powers waning. 

Dr. Schaff will be remembered first for his contributions to the theological literature of his day, 
and the interpretation of German theology to English-speaking students. He was the chief mediator 
in his day between the theology of Europe and that of America. He will next be remembered for his 
services in the promotion of Christian Unity, and the revision of the Authorized Version of the 
Bible. In the history of American theologs' he will always have a place as one of the representatives 
of the so-called Mercersburg theology, which will give to the old home town, looking out toward Par- 
nell's Knob, a name as long as Americans continue to study their schools of theology. 

In his home and private life, he was a sincere and good man, lacking all pretension. I never 
knew him to be absent from the morning devotion before breakfast a single time in his life, except when 
he was absent from home, and during the last ten da>'S prior to his death, when he was incapable of 
going down stairs. He often said that his only hope was that Jesus Christ died for sinners. And so 
he brought himself, as well as his gifts, under the dominion of the Redeemer. Many of the books of 
his library he gave to the seminary in Mercersburg, and in the last years his thoughts turned with a 
childlike affection back to it and the first home to which he brought his wife, and where his children 
were born. One of his last plans was to visit the old scenes once more with Mrs. Schaff, and he often 
talked about it. He frequently said that, if it had not been for the quiet of his study there, and the hard 
studies he made there during twenty years, he would not have been able to accomplish what he did dur- 
ing the last period of his career. My memory of my father in Mercersburg is that of pious reverence 
for him as a man of study, and also of filial affection as the father who never forgot, on returning from 
an absence, to bring something with him for his children ; of his merriment around the Christmas tree, 
and of his romping with us on the back porch and yard. 

His funeral was attended by a large concourse of people in the Church of the Covenant, New 
York, on one of the stormiest days I ever witnessed in the city. Prof. Emil V. Gerhart, his life-long 
friend, and at that time Professor in the Gemian Reformed Seminary in Lancaster, joined with Prof. 
Thomas S. Hastings, President of the Union Theological Seminary, in paying the last tribute to him 
from the pulpit. He lies buried in the Woodlawn cemetery near New York City, where his children, 
Meta and John, had been laid before, and where the beloved companion of his life, Mrs. Schaff, now 
rests at his side. On the tombstone are the following words : 

"Vivat inter sanctos 

Rev. Philip Schaff. Jan. i, 1819 — Oct. 20, 1893. 

A Teacher of Theology for Fifty Years. Historian of the Church. 
President of the American Committee of Bible Revision. He advocated the Reunion of Christendom." 

David Schley Schaff 




WILLIAM M. XEVIX. LL. D. 



HiUtarn M. Nputn. SC. i. 

Sy IftH don 

PROFESSOR William M. Nevin, whose name is inseparably connected with the early history 
of Marshall College and of Mercersburg at that period, was born of Scotch-Irish ances- 
try, near Shippensburg, Franklin county, Pennsylvania, in 1806. He went through the 
Freshman year at Princeton College, but his father, John Nevin, having been elected a trus- 
tee of Dickinson College, he finished his course at that institution. Professor Nevin, always 
"Professor" in spite of the fact that the degree of Doctor of Laws had been conferred upon him by 
his Alma Mater, was called to the chair of Language and Belles Lettres in Marshall College and came 
to Mercersburg in 1841. He at once entered into the life of the college and Mercersburg, and as a man 
of high culture his influence and direction were soon felt and will ever be fondly remembered by those 
who sat under his teachings. He took an especial interest in the literary societies, the Diagnothean and 
Goethean, succeeded by the Washington Irving and Marshall, and did more, possibly, than any other 
one man toward their well-founding and establishment. 

Dr. J. S. Stahr, of Franklin and Marshall College, in a memorial tribute to Professor Nevin said: 
"Some of the finest productions of Professor Nevin's graceful pen were consecrated to anniversary 
occasions, triennial or alumni reunions, and his full heart ever found expression either when danger 
seemed to threaten the societies he held so dear, or else when signal success justified the rejoicing of 
all their friends." 

He was a writer of many beautiful lyric poems, some of them appearing from time to time in the 
"Guardian," published in Mercersburg until 1853. Many of his poems treated of the beautiful, pict- 
uresque surroundings of Mercersburg. They were unfortunately never collected and published in 
book form, and can only be found scattered through the church and college papers and magazines. His 
metrical translations of some of the "Odes of Horace" are pronounced by scholars to be among the 
best ever written. 

Professor Nevin lived in Mercersburg until the removal of Marshall College to Lancaster, in 
1853. He and his family occupied the old South Cottage. There his daughter, Martha (afterwards 
Mrs. J. Brainerd Kremer), was born. He was always deeply interested in aflfairs of Mercersburg, 
and of Franklin, his native county. He was frequently called upon for poetical contributions for 
local historical anniversary occasions. To the day of his death, which occurred in 1892, he had a 
warm place in his heart for Mercersburg. Some of his best known poems are "The Bat," "To the 
Katy Did," "The Pine Knot," and "Ode to Middle Spring Church." 

Albin M. Nevin. 




99 



100 (1^1^ Mi^vmBbttt^ 

The Fender 



How many circles it hath graced 

Hath fortune caused to stray ; 
How many feet once round it placed, 

Have wandered far away; — 
Have wandered far away from us 

To other, foreign climes, 
And left us to regret their loss 

In social winter times. 



Its former joys come fleeting by, 

While thus I sit alone. 
With my folding arms and musing eye — 

And my feet upon it thrown; 
With my feet upon it thrown, to think 

Of the smiling forms I knew 
Which still, as the clock would to midnight clink, 

The closer round it drew. 



The many songs, the social chat. 

And the serious talk at last, 
Of the young and gay, that round it sat, 

With them away have passed ; — 
With them away have passed, but still 

With us the hopes remain 
That some of them from their wanderings will 

Return to us again. 



With heads all gray they will sit and tell 

Of the hardships they have tried. 
And draw us round like a fairy spell, 

Again to the fender's side ; — 
Again to the fender's side, but yet 

Should others never come 
We will pray with them again to meet 

Above in a lasting home. 

— W. M. Nevin. 

Tlie Guardian, February, 1851. 



mh MmBxsbm^ loi 



My Heart is Weary for the Lilies 

My heart is weary for the hlies. Oh, 
That I might wander far beyond the snow 
And find the garden where the lihes grow ! 

Lilies, clean silver lilies to illume 
And glorify the dimness of my room. 
Lilies of light to penetrate the gloom. 



Not the bright roses of the shining day; 
Roses are fittest when the hour is gay ; 
For holy-hearted lilies now I pray. 



Once in the summer time I wooed the Rose, 
Drank its perfume and sorrowed when it froze; 
Now I want only lilies — and repose. 



Christ ! make thine Easter lilies bloom again ! 
See, how thy poor are crying out in pain. 
And all the land is full of snow and rain. 



Sharp is the wind, and cutting is the sleet. 
Cold and unclean we walk the dreary street; 
Cold and unclean the mire about our feet. 



In vain we turn for hope toward thy sky ; 
Clouds are so dense, and Heaven — -alas — so high 
No sun shines visible to human eve. 



Death lurks for victims in the poisonous air, 

Disease is prowling near us everywhere, 

And Pestilence growls threatening from his lair. 



Show us, O Thou who once removed our stain. 
We need not pray for purity in vain ! 
Christ, bid thy solemn lilies bloom again. 

— Blanche Nevin. 



^tuhrnt an& ^rofpBBor of Sljpologg at iHrrrprHburg 

/• > ^' MANUEL Vogel Gerhart, A. M., D. D., LL. D., was a son of the Rev. Isaac and Sarah 
^L^ (Vogel) Gerhart, born at Freeburg, Snyder county, Pennsylvania, June 13, 1817. Edu- 
T^ cated in the Classical Institution at York, Pa., in Marshall College and the Theological 
^0l^r Seminary at Mercersburg, Pa. He was pastor successively of the Grindstone Hill charge, 
near Chambersburg, Pa. ; of the Gettysburg charge, and of the First Reformed church in 
Cincinnati, Ohio; acting at the same time as traveling missionary in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, 
Wisconsin, etc. In 185 1 he was elected President of Heidelberg College, and Professor of Theo- 
logy in the Seminary at Tiffin, Ohio. In 1854 he was chosen as President of Franklin and Mar- 
shall College and as Professor of Mental and Moral Philosophy. In 1868 he was elected Profes- 
sor of Doctrinal and Practical Theology in the Seminary at Mercersburg. Continued in this posi- 
tion at Lancaster until his death. The degree of A. M. was conferred on him "in course" by Marshall 
College, 1841 ; of D. D. by Jefferson College, 1857, and of LL. D. by Franklin and Marshall College, 
1887. Editor of the Mercersburg Review, with the late Dr. Philip Schaff, from 1857 to 1861. For 
fifty years a frequent contributor to the Reformed Church Messenger. He edited and published a vol- 
ume of Dr. Ranch's sermons, entitled, "The Inner Life." He was the author of "Philosophy and 
Logic," 1856; "Monograph of the Reformed Church," 1863; "Junior Heidelberg Catechism," 1882; 
"Institutes of the Christian Religion," 2 vols., 1891-1894. A "Philosophical Introduction to Theol- 
ogy" was completed in manuscript but never published. In his eightieth year he visited Europe as a 
delegate to the Alliance of Reformed Churches assembled at Glasgow in 1896. Died at Lancaster, 
Pa., May 6, 1904. Buried in Lancaster Cemetery. 

Dr. Gerhart spent two periods of his life in Mercersburg. In his youth he was a student in Mar- 
shall College and in the Theological Seminary. In his mature manhood, after twenty-seven years of 
service in the church, he returned to the seat of his Alma Mater as a teacher of theology and as Pres- 
ident of the Theological Seminary. His life and work in Mercersburg as a student and as a Professor 
will occupy our attention in this sketch. 

In his boyhood Dr. Gerhart was under the tuition of his father, the Rev. Isaac Gerhart, a minister 
of the Reformed (German) Church in the United States. In 1833, at the age of thirteen, he entered the 
Oassical Institution of the Reformed Church at York, Pa. Here he continued his studies until the 
school was removed to Mercersburg, Pa., November, 1835. In the meantime its name had been 
changed to the High School of the Reformed Church (1835). Young Gerhart was one of eighteen 
students who followed the institution to its new home. Their arrival at Mercersburg is described by 
Dr. Theodore Appel in his College Recollections on the basis of a graphic account of an eye witness, 
the Rev. Amos H. Kremer, as follows: "Fourteen of them (students) were brought into the town of 
Mercersburg on two stages, seven in each. Four others were stragglers, who, with the faculty consist- 
ing of two Professors, reached their place of destination in some other way. Seven of them were Diag- 
nothians and eleven Goetheans. Their arrival made quite a sensation in the village." 

In the fall of 1836 the High school was chartered as Marshall College, and young Gerhart became 
a member of the first Junior class. He, with five others, graduated in the class of 1838. The com- 
mencement exercises were held on the 26th of September. The names of his classmates were Moses 
KieflFer, George Henry Martin, Daniel Miller, George Washington Williard, and Andrew Strassburger 
Young. All but one entered the ministry. Four of'the class in later life were honored with the degree 
of D. D., while two received the degree of LL. D. 

For the facts and incidents of his student days we shall have to depend on College Recollections, 
by Appel, and the History of Franklin and Marshall College, by Dubbs ; but especially on the four 
Note-books, in which Dr. Gerhart kept a record of his work in the classroom and wrote his essays, 

102 



addresses, poems, and letters while he was in college and seminary. These are in the archives of the 
Historical Society of the Reformed Church in the United States at Lancaster, Pa., and are a rich 
source of information, not only on the work of student Gerhart, but also of the institutions which 
he attended. A series of nine "Rules for a Student," at the end of the first volume of his Notes, is 
evidence of the rigorous self-discipline and the indefatigable industry of the young student. Rule 4, 
for example, says : "Let it be a rule to employ at least twelve hours of each day in close study." 
Rule 5, "Observe system in everything. Have your day divided into parts, just as an architect divides 
the space of his house, giving to those studies which are more important for vou a larger portion of 
time." Rule 7. "Let your conduct always be dignified," etc. Rule 8, "Above all beware, — yes be- 
ware of the ladies," etc. AH of these rules would bear repetition in the halls of academies and col- 
leges of our day. They explain the secret of success of the future college president and systematic 
theologian. 

Those were the palmy days of the literary societies in college. Every student was bent on becom- 
ing a speaker and a writer. Student Gerhart, judging from the essays, addresses, and poems, which 
are carefully written out in these Notes, was most diligent in the cultivation of a literary style. At 
York already the body of students was divided by lot into literary societies — the Diagnothian and the 
Goethean. The lot of young Gerhart fell to the Diagnothian, of which he became a charter member 
and remained an ardent and lifelong champion. His farewell address, as an officer of the Society, is 
found in his Notes, and its last sentence rings true to a student's enthusiasm : "May the name of the 
Diagnothian Society forever sound like music in my ears ; and may I always prove myself to be its true 
friend. Now let me bid you an affectionate adieu !" His interest in the Society continued even after 
he entered the Seminary, as a "Histor}' of the Diagnothian Literary Society" in manuscript (March, 
1841) clearly shows. 

The eighteen essays and addresses, which are preserved in his college Notes, were doubtless 
written, with a few exceptions, for use in the Society. Space will not permit a citation of the sub- 
jects. The beauty of diction and the richness of thought are a prophecy of the coming scholar and 
author. Some of them were "written for publication." Whether the intention of the writer was ful- 
filled or not, we cannot tell. The fertility of his mind is shown by the frequency of his compositions. 
In 1836 he wrote ten essays; in 1837, from January to September, six; and in 1838, five. Printed 
in a volume they would cover at least 150 octavo pages. Those who afterwards knew the well poised 
mind and the dignified manner of Dr. Gerhart will be interested to know that the subject of his first 
essay in college was the "Necessity of Self-Command" (1836). 

Occasionally he came under the spell of the poetic Muse. Eleven of his poems are scattered 
through his Notes. He wrote on a variety of subjects— Woman, Inward Peace, The Macedonian 
Cry, The Sabbath, Mary, Life, etc. 

He entered heartily into the social life of the village. In a letter to a friend, the first draft of 
which in lead pencil is in the Notes, he alludes to the pleasure he found in his association vyith the 
ladies of the town, "especially the pious, intelligent and handsome," and to two weeks of his vaca- 
tion which he spent "very pleasantly in Hagerstown, Maryland." This fondness for social fellowship 
was a delightful characteristic of his whole life. But, withal, he was concerned with the serious side 
of life. Towards the close of the same letter he says ; "I am now pursuing my studies with the view 
of becoming a foreign missionary." He was doubtless sincere in his purpose, but he was destined to 
labor for the Church in another sphere. 

The vear after his graduation the Alumni Association of Marshall College was organized (1842), 
and he was honored by being chosen to deliver the Alumni Address for the following year, the first 
of its kind in the College. 

He entered the Theological Seminary in 1839, completing his course of study in 1841. The 
other members of his class were John R. Kooken, Daniel Kroh, Charles H. Leinbach, George H. Mar- 
tin, and George Strickland. The members of the faculty from 1839 to 1841 were Lewis Mayer, D. D., 
retired in the fall of 1839; Frederick A. Ranch, Ph. D., and, from the spring of 1840, John W. 
Nevin, D. D. 

While he was a seminary student, he served as teacher in the Preparatory Department of the Col- 
lege in charge of the Rev. W. A. Good, and in the school for young women which had been estab- 
lished in Mercersburg under the principalship of Mrs. Sarah Ann Young. In the latter school he con- 



>04 mh MmnBhnxQ 

tinued to teach until the fall of 1843, a year after his graduation. He was licensed to preach the Gos- 
pel by the Synod of the Reformed Church at Reading, Pa., in October, 1841, and ordained to the Min- 
istry by Mercersburg Classis at the Grindstone Hill Church, near Chambersburg, Pa., in August, 
1842. 

In the Seminary, as in College, he continued his practice in literary composition. The following 
essays and addresses are found in his Notes: "Thorough Knowledge" (January 7, 1839) ; "Efficacy 
of Prayer" (April 15, 1839) ; "Address to Sabbath-School Teachers" (February 10, 1840) ; "Address 
delivered before the High-Spring Sabbath School" (September 15, 1839); "The Sinner's Return to 
God" (June 2, 1840); "Temptation" (August 11, 1840); "When Should the Sinner Embrace Re- 
ligion?" (September i, 1840); "Advantages Derived from the Proper Study of Ecclesiastical His- 
tory" (December, 1840); "A German Address" (December 24, 1841); "History of the Diagnothian 
Literary Society" (March, 1841) ; "The Influence of a Holy Life" (1840) ; "The Ministerial Office." 

Of special value for the historian are his notes of the lectures delivered in the classroom by his 
Professors. The more important are the following : Lectures on Romans, by Professor Mayer ; 
Lectures by Dr. Ranch on Mental Philosophy (apparently an exact copy of the original), on Phren- 
ology, on Hermeneutics, on the Doctrine of the Trinity and the Union of the two Natures in Christ 
(Summer of 1839). 

After an absence of twenty-six eventful years in his life. Dr. Gerhart returned to Mercersburg to 
occupy the chair of Doctrinal and Practical Theology in the Seminary. He succeeded Dr. Henry Har- 
baugh, who died December 28, 1867. He was elected at a special meeting of the Eastern Synod at 
Harrisburg in March, 1868. He delivered his inaugural address at Hagerstown, Md., October 23, 
1868, on "The Historical Element in Theology." 

To enter upon the duties of his new office he resigned the Professorship of Moral Philosophy and 
Psychology in Franklin and Marshall College, at Lancaster, Pa., and moved with his family to Mer- 
cersburg in August, 1868, residing in South Cottag'e. He began to teach in the Seminary in Septem- 
ber. His colleagues in the faculty were E. E. Higbee, D. D., Professor of Church History and Exe- 
gesis, and Jacob B. Kerschner, D. D., tutor. His residence in Mercersburg ended, after a brief space 
of three years, with the removal of the Seminary to Lancaster, Pa., in 1871. 

Until the week of his death he occupied the chair of Systematic Theology in which he attained a 
national reputation as a teacher and an author, and won for himself the affection and esteem of his 
students. 

The contemporaries of Dr. Gerhart as a Professor in Mercersburg have passed away, and the his- 
torian has recorded few, if any, incidents of his life and work at that time. We cannot, therefore, 
rely on oral tradition or on written documents for facts and events to adorn the story of his life. 
His first years in the Seminary were doubtless spent in completing his preparation for teaching doc- 
trinal theology, the final results of which were published in two volumes entitled, "Institutes of the 
Christian Religion," 1891-1894. Besides his inaugural address, two articles from his pen appeared in 
the Mercersburg Review, one on "Doginatic Theology" (1870) and the other on "The Creed and Dog- 
matic Theology" (1871). To this i?m£7t', and its successor, The Reformed Church Review, he con- 
tributed, from 185 1 to 1903, sixty-two articles. He became one of the most distinguished exponents 
of the Mercersburg Theology, whose founders were Rauch, Nevin, and Schaff. 

George W. Richards 



^^■^HOMAS Bard McFarland was bom on a farm one mile east of Mercersburg on the 19th day of 
/-g April, 1828. His father, Captain John McFarland, was of Scotch-Irish descent, and his 
L f L mother, Eliza Parker, was of English stock. Several generations of his ancestors lived in 
\t^ the colonies, and the McFarlands were among the first settlers of the Cumberland Valley. 
They are descended from the second Earl of Lennox, who lived about the year 1150. 

The farm where Justice McFarland was born and spent his childhood and youth was taken up 
by Robert McFarland, Sr. Thomas and Richard Penn, "Proprietors and Governors in Chief of the 
Province of Pennsylvania," issued to him a patent for this land, on January 11, 1769, "in the tenth 
}-ear of the reign of King George the Third." 

This tract of land, which in the original patent is called "McFarland's Delight," contained 248 
acres. The Patentee, Robert McFarland, Sr., sold the tract to his nephew, Robert McFarland, in 
1777. About this time the buildings, which are still standing, were erected. It descended in due 
course to a son. Captain John McFarland, father of Justice McFarland, and has been the home of five 
generations, now being owned by the daughters of the late R. Parker McFarland. 

On this farm Thomas Bard McFarland was born. We do not know how he occupied the early 
days, but there stirred in his veins the hot blood of a virile and hardy race. One historian has called 
the Scotch-Irish "the backbone of the nation" ; another declared that "they were hard to manage" — 
a statement due doubtless to the fact that they were themselves a race of managers. 

His maternal grandfather was Colonel Robert Parker, an officer in the Revolution, a personal 
friend and counsellor of Washington, and served on the great general's staff at the siege of York- 
town. 

He was eight years old when Marshall College was established in Mercersburg. He entered its 
doors at an early age, and in 1849 received its diploma. It was here that he formed those studious 
habits which distinguished him in after life. 

In the year 1900 Justice McFarland was a guest of honor at the banquet of the Harvard Club 
of San Francisco, and responded to the Theme, "Reminiscences of College Days." I quote some pas- 
sages from that response, which will give a suggestion of his literary style, his fund of humor, his 
seriousness of mind, and the honor in which he ever held his Alma Mater. 

"I have always thought," he said in commencing his after-dinner address, "1 have always 
thought, and have said it once before, I believe, that entertaining a man at a banquet and then asking 
him to make a speech is much like the conduct of a good housewife who gives a tramp a dinner 
and then makes him saw wood to pay for it. 

"I am down for some reminiscences of college days. It is somewhat embarrassing to speak of 
the modest little college of which I am a graduate in the presence of so many alumni of the great 
and historic Harvard, whose foundations were laid in the earliest colonial times, and whose super- 
structure is now as high and broad and firm and splendid as that of any other institution of learning 
that can be named. 

"I was graduated at Marshall College, which was then located at Mercersburg, Pa., in the lower 
part of the beautiful Cumberland Valley, a few miles from Maryland and near Northern Virginia. 

"The thing connected with my college days of which I have retained the most vivid recollection 
was the mortal fear which I had, as the finaf examination approached, that I would fail to get my 
diploma because I would be found deficient in that noble branch of human learning — mathematics. 

"In those days the basis and main part of a college education was the ancient languages— -and 
mathematics. We learned something of chemistr>- and geology, and botany and zoology, and miner- 
alogy, and kindred subjects, but the study of the physical sciences had not the prominence then that 
it has now. There was not then quite so much glorification of mere facts as there is now. 

"It was thought then that the study of Latin and Greek was better calculated than any other study 

105 



•06 mh MmnBbnt^ 

to develop and strengthen those faculties of the mind which must afterwards be relied on in the orig- 
inal and constructive work of actual life; that it, better than any other study, tended to cultivate all 
the mental qualities — the judgment, the taste, the imagination, the reason, the power of concentration, 
and to keep up the strain of a continued line of thought on one subject. I am of that opinion still, 
and have seen it exemplified in my own profession." 

In his closing remarks he said : "As to my own Alma Mater, I desire to say that if I have ever 
accomplished anything worth mentioning at all, I can trace the cause of it back to the atmosphere of 
that little Pennsylvania College named after the illustrious Chief Justice Marshall, as great, as orig- 
inal, as correct a thinker as this country, or any other country, has ever produced." 

Leaving the college, Thomas McFarland began the study of law at Chambersburg, Pa. His pre- 
ceptor was Robert M. Bard, Esq., his cousin. "So rapid was his progress and so close his applica- 
tion" that he was admitted in November, 1849, to the Chambersburg Bar. 

But Pennsylvania with its splendid traditions was not to be the arena of Thomas Bard McFar- 
land's life-long work. "The call of the West" met a response in his restless nature. The early spring 
of 1850 found Thomas McFarland, in company with his brother Franklin, on his way to California. 
He crossed over the plains with an ox-team. He was then twenty-two years old. In 1853 he located 
in Nevada City and began the practice of law. In 1856, he was elected to the Legislature from Nevada 
county. His services as a legislator, though of brief duration, were conspicuous, and the impress of his 
sound judgment was left upon the statutes of the State. 

From the Legislature to the Bench was a sequential step, and in 1861 he was elected Judge of 
the Fourteenth District Court, in which capacity he served for eight years. Nominated by the citizens 
of the Sacramento district to the Constitutional Convention, he was elected by a large majority. 

The convention then elected framed the present Constitution of the State of California, and he 
took a conspicuous and useful part in the framing of that instrument. 

In 1882, a vacancy having occurred in the Superior Court of Sacramento county, Governor Per- 
kins appointed Judge McFarland to fill the vacancy. At the expiration of his term, in 1884, he was 
elected for a full term of six years. In 1886, however, he was elected for a full term of twelve years 
as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of California, whereupon he resigned his Superior 
Judgeship, and took his seat upon the bench of the Supreme Court in January, 1887. He was re- 
elected to a second term, and sat continually as an Associate Justice of the highest court up to the 
time of his death, a period of nearly twenty-two years. 

Justice McFarland brought to this exalted tribunal the ripe experience of a mind trained by years 
of assiduous labor in legal lore. His student habits had never been laid aside, and his distinguished 
service as a judge of the lower courts, extending over a period of more than fourteen years, eminently 
fitted him to share the responsibilities of the Supreme Court with the distinguished jurists with whom 
he now divided his labors. 

He had already proved himself a tried, unimpeachable jurist, an honest, rugged, honorable man. 
Magnificently equipped by nature, as well as by profession, he was in the vigor of manhood, mental and 
physical. And in his whole career as a member of the Supreme Court he was as true to the con- 
stitution in the impartiality of his decisions as the North Pole to the Polar Star. 

While a District Judge he tried more criminal cases than any other jurist in the State, save only 
those sitting in the courts of San Francisco, and only one of his judgments was ever reversed. And 
when in the Supreme Court he is said to have participated in more reviews and written more opinions 
than any of his associates. 

Justice McFarland was above everything else a man. He was tall, strong, and robust in physical 
frame. He had the full white beard of the generation gone. In politics, originally a Whig, he became 
a Republican when that party was organized. He knew the people of his State, and his commanding 
figure won attention wherever he went. He was a thorough Californian and loved its golden slopes, 
its graceful valleys, and its sunny shores. 

I cannot close this imperfect sketch more fittingly than in Justice McFarland's own beautiful words, 
spoken at the close of an address delivered in the Supreme Court in eulogy of his life-long friend and 
associate, Justice Niles — an address which many have considered the most finished literary production 
ever published in the State — words equally appropriate to himself as to his friend : 



(§ih MmtXBbntQ 



107 



"If there be another life, if Plato's dream of immortality be not as unsubstantial as were many of 
his 'Ideas' ; if the expectations of millions of Christian men and women be not utterly baseless — may 
we not hope, at least, that our departed friend has entered upon a sphere of higher existence, with 
faculties and capacities more suited to its conditions and demands, than those possessed by many 
who still linger here on this bank and shoal of time, waiting for 

'The tide-returning surge 
To sweep them from our sight.' " 

James Gray Rose. 




I 



2Jy ll^ia &an 



ALMOST within the shadow of South Mountain, on the Pennsylvania-Maryland boundary line, 
four miles southeast of Waynesboro, Pa., stands the old Harbaugh homestead. The house 
is a double front stone structure whose substantial walls, built in 1805, bid fair to weather 
the storms of another century, while its less durable companion piece, the school-house at the 
creek, "Juscht neekschtan's Dady's Haus," lives only in the song of the "Harfe." Here, 
amid the homely scenes of Pennsylvania Gennan country life, George Harbaugh and Anna his wife, 
descendants of Swiss emigrants, lived and reared their children, and here it was that their son, Henry 
Harbaugh, was born, October 28, 1817. 

His youngest sister persisted in remembering him as a mischievous boy, though this recollection 
was dwelt upon in the evening of her life, and in evident contemplation of the attainments of her then 
doctor of divinity brother. 

The older boys of the Harbaugh household were farmers. They accepted that life in good earn- 
est, and were afterwards faithful and successful in that pursuit. Henry suffered by contrast before 
he grew up to reach the handles of a plow. Upon a trip to the saw mill in the mountains, he was 
far more eager about the legends of the foothills than he was about loading of the logs upon the 
wagon. The curious old coins that were one day turned up by the plow interested him more than the 
plow that turned them up. He chose to contemplate the majesty of the forest trees and the life that 
teemed among them rather than to assist in reducing such haunts of nature to practical and commer- 
cial levels. 

So Henry Harbaugh passed his bo3'hood, in the winter months, at the school-house by the creek ; 
in the summer turning the hay rows or following after the grain cradles in the broad acres of the har- 
vest field. Until his nineteenth year he continued on the farm at home, though he felt a strong impulse 
to study, and never let slip an opportunity to cultivate his mind. Fond of working in wood, for a time 
he wrought at the trade of a millwright. But his desires lay in another direction. He wished to 
go to school, to take a college course, to prepare for the ministry. His father opposed him in all his 
efforts in this direction, thinking that he ought to stay on the farm. In 1836 he went with some friends 
to Ohio, and for several years worked at the carpenter bench and taught singing school. When he had 
saved about $200, he lost it all through the failure of his employer, but he kept on with his work until 
in 1840, with some funds in his pocket, he applied for admission to the freshman class at Marshall Col- 
lege, Mercersburg. 

He passed through the freshman and sophomore classes, and spent the third year in studying 
theology. Meanwhile his father saw the bent of his son's mind and came to his help. In 1843, Dr. 
Harbaugh entered upon his first charge at Lewisburg, Pa., and remained there until 1850, when he 
accepted a call to the First Reformed church, Lancaster, Pa., where he served as pastor for ten years. 
In i860 he became the first pastor of St. John's Reformed church, Lebanon, Pa., and while serving as 
pastor there, in October, 1863, he was elected by the synod as Professor of systematic and practical 
theology in the seminary at Mercersburg. 

As Professor in the Seminary, Dr. Harbaugh wrought out a full course of lectures in dogmatics, 
itself a work of immense labor; also a full course of lectures on practical theology, on catechetics, on cul- 
tus and on the pastoral work. These lectures contained matter enough for a full sized octavo volume in 
each case. He then prepared lectures on homiletics, on the history of Refomied dogmatics, and on the 
Heidelberg catechism. The mere mention of these topics gives no adequate conception at all of the 
labor involved. During this time he preached almost every Sunday, wrote for various periodicals and 
edited the "Guardian," a monthly magazine founded by himself while at Lewisburg, in 1850. 

Almost from the beginning of his ministry he wrote for publication. In 1849 he published "The 

108 







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i 


l^'fQ^; 


ft 


\ ^ 


L 




■""^^ 


1 


/ 


1 





HEXKY HAKHAl'GH, U. D. 



Sainted Dead." His second book, "The Heavenly Recognition," came from the press in 185 1, and 
others followed in rapid succession. "The Heavenly Home" and "The Lord's Portion" in 1853; 
"Union with the Church" and "Birds of the Bible," 1855 ; "Schlatter's Life and Travels" and "Fath- 
ers of the Reformed Church," 1858; "The True Glory of Woman" and an edition of English poems, 
1858. He also published "Hymns and Chants'' and "The Golden Censer" in 1861. Several publica- 
tions, not of a religious nature, were "Annals of the Harbaugh Family" 1856, and "Harbaugh's 
Harfe," a collection of poems in the Pennsylvania-German dialect, collected and published after his 
death. His published pamphlets were very numerous, and his contributions to various periodicals 
run into the hundreds. 

Of his social life while a student at Mercersburg, Dr. Harbaugh gives a little glimpse in a letter 
written in the autumn of 1843: 

"This afternoon about three o'clock I visited the 'Juvenile Female Sewing Society' of Mercersburg, 
of which I am an honorary member. Perhaps I told you before of this society. It consists of young 
girls about twelve years of age. They sew little things, the profit of which is devoted to missionary 
purposes. They have already between four and five dollars of money. I like to encourage them, so 
I visit them frequently. They meet every Saturday afternoon. They are also my singing class. I 
took them a watermelon this afternoon. It was a large and excellent one . They were much pleased 
and we had a great feast. They are improving beyond all my e.xpectations, and I intend to hold a 
concert this Fall before I leave. We are at present practicing tunes for it and I think we will have 
a crowded audience. I do not like to part with my class, and they do not like to part with me, but 
so it must be. It is harder to leave this class than anything else I have found in Mercersburg." 

In later years, his social relations at Mercersburg were very pleasant. During his pastorates at 
Lewisburg, Lancaster and Lebanon Dr. Harbaugh made frequent pilgrimages to the little mountain 
town, and he was by no means a stranger upon his arrival there in January, 1864. His "class of little 
girls" had grown to womanhood, but they still remembered their singing teacher of the early forties. 

Here, in the few years allotted to him. Dr. Harbaugh did his greatest work for the seminary and 
church he loved so well, and here he expected to make his permanent home. In the autunm of 1867 
he was stricken with what proved to be a cerebro-spinal affection, and failed gradually in health until 
December 28th, when he peacefully breathed his last. There has been no death in the Reformed church 
in this country that caused such universal sorrow. 

Dr. Harbaugh was twice married. His first wife was Louisa Goodrich, who died early in life, 
leaving one daughter, Mary, who became the wife of Dr. S. T. Lineaweaver, and died some years ago. 
His second wife was Mary Louisa Linn, who, with six children, lived in Mercersburg a number of 
years. She died in February, 1898, and lies buried at old St. David's church, Radnor, Pa. The chil- 
dren still living are : Wilson L., Margaret A., Henry Lange, Mary Louisa, and John A., all of Bryn 
Mawr, Pa., and Linn Harbaugh, Chambersburg, Pa. 

Dr. Harbaugh is buried "in Trinity churchyard, Mercersburg, where a monument was erected by 
the Synod of the Church on October 18, 1870, with imposing religious services. Other memorials of 
Dr. Harbaugh have been placed in recent years in several of the churches of which he was at one time 
pastor. A memorial window in the First Church, Lancaster, and in the old homestead church near 
Waynesboro, Pa. ; also, in the chapel of the seminary at Lancaster a memorial window has been placed. 
A portrait in oil hangs in the library of the seminary at Lancaster, and a like portrait in the Academy 
at Mercersburg. 

A biography of Dr. Harbaugh, published in 1900 by the Boards of the Church and Sunday school, 
Philadelplna, 308 pages, gives an extended account of his life and works. The foregoing facts have 
been largely gathered from this source. 

A striking tribute to Dr. Harbaugh's genius is to be found in the frequent use of his works in 
recent years, and in the many quotations, and reprints of his writings, especially his Elnglish and 
Pennsylvania-German poems, by the press throughout the United States and in other countries. 

Probably no two men were ever more congenial and affectionate in their personal relation and 
social intercourse than Dr. Philip Schaff and Dr. Harbaugh, and it seems befitting to close this brief 
sketch with the following peculiarly strong and expressive tribute from Dr. Schaff : 



no 



(§ih MtrnrBhntQ 



"Dr. Harbaugh was no common man. He was endowed with rare gifts of mind and heart, and 
indomitable energy- and perseverance. He had an e.xuberant vitality, a rich imagination, great power of 
popularizing and illustrating deep thought, and an unfailing source of genuine, good-natured humor. 
The defects of his early education he made up by intense application. By the integrity of his character, 
and the disinterestedness of his labors, he won the esteem, and, by the kindness and generosity of 
his heart, secured the affection of all who knew him. His cheerful disposition, rich humor, and an 
inexhaustible fund of original anecdotes, made him a most agreeable companion." 

Linn Harbaugh 
"Whether to live or die, 

I know not which is best ; 
To live in Thee, is bliss to me, 
To die is endless rest. 



"Jesus ! I live to Thee, 
The loveliest and best; 

My life in Thee, Thy life in me. 
In Thy blest love I rest. 



"Jesus! I die to Thee, 

Whenever death shall come; 
To die in Thee, is life to me, 

In my eternal home. 



"Living or dying. Lord, 

I ask but to be Thine; 
My life in Thee, Thy life in me 

Makes heaven forever mine." 

— Henry Harbaugh 














1 




THOMAS GILMORE APPEL. 1 1. I 





tillfnmaa Ciitlmnr^ App^l, i^ S. 

^fcrHOMAS Gilmore Appel, Ph. D., D. D., LL. D., the first President of Mercersburg College, 
/ -4 was born near Easton, Pennsylvania, November 14, 1829. His early boyhood was spent 
§ ^ r along the beautiful Bushkill where he imbibed a love for streams and hills that never left him. 
^1^ In the spring of 1840, he moved with his parents to Crawford county, Pennsylvania, crossing 
the State in wagons and on foot. He used to tell how frightened he was at the cry of a 
panther in the night time in the foothills of the Alleghanies. Here along French Creek he lived until he 
was sixteen years of age. 

In 1845 he went back to Easton, traveling over the old Erie canal, and entered the classical school 
of the Rev. Dr. Vanderveer. In 1848 he entered the sophomore class of Marshall College, and was 
graduated in due course, delivering the valedictory oration. In this address he speaks of the "usual 
occupations of the village being laid aside, the exercises of the College being suspended, the halls de- 
serted, and the old bell calling the students together for the last time." 

Referring to the problems of the age he says : "Beneath this turbulent surface, there is a far 
greater struggle going forward. Questions, not in regard to the power of steam or the uses to which 
electricity may be applied, not as to the best and quickest way of accumulating wealth or removing for- 
ests and building cities — all highly imjxjrtant in their place, — but problems which have to do with ever- 
lasting ideas, with the spiritual, the absolute and the infinite, stand waiting for solution." In his intial 
production he touched the keynote of his character. 

Addressing the citizens of the town he says : "To-day we leave you forever. These mountains 
too, which have often inspired our minds with the grandeur and the majesty of nature as we gazed 
upon their summits in the calm and silent evening hour when the golden sun was sinking in his 
western bed, these shaded groves which have often listened to the whisperings of disinterested friend- 
ship, the pleasant walks, the hidden cavern and the grassy mead must all be left behind. There is a 
spell, however, in the present occasion unknown before. Marshall College herself is about to leave 
your pleasant and retired village. In a few years this may no longer be classic ground. The mysteries 
of nature that lie concealed in these neighboring fields and mountains will no longer be explored by 
Professor and student ; their accustomed forms will no longer be seen in your streets, the rooms and 
halls of yonder temple of science will no longer echo to the sounds of their footsteps, and strangers will 
tread these grounds, unconscious of the hallowed associations with them in the minds of those far 
away," etc. 

In addressing his instructors he says : "All truth in our world is relative and rests on the abso- 
lute truth which gives it reality. Hence the power of the idea, — and hence we attribute more in- 
fluence to the conflict which is going forward in the world of mind than all the tumult and confusion 
that is agitating the world in external form." 

There is a flavor of old Marshall days about this time-stained manuscript. Little did the youthful 
valedictorian then dream that he would in after years be called to the presidency of a new institution, 
sprung from the ashes of his old Alma Mater. 

After graduation he taught in the Elmwood Institute for boys at Norristown, Pennsylvania, under 
the presidency of Rev. J. R. Kooken; and was married on August 27, 1851, to Miss Emma Matilda 
Miller, of Easton. 

In 1852 he took charge of the school of Dr. Vanderveer, studying theology privately; and was 
licensed and ordained by the Classis of Goshenhoppen at Springifield, Bucks county, Pennsylvania. 
While teaching he also served as pastor of the Riegelsville and Mount Bethel congregations, near 
Easton. In 1855 he again crossed the Alleghanies and became pastor of Reformed congregations at 
Greensburg and Irwin, Pennsylvania. 

Ill 



112 0^1^ MtmxBhm^ 

In 1856 he accepted a call from the Mechanicsburg charge in Cumberland county, Pennsylvania, 
and an appointment as principal teacher in a high school established by Mr. I. D. Rupp. In 1858 he moved 
to Greencastle, Pennsylvania, and became pastor of the Reformed congregation at that place. He lived 
there during the entire Civil War, and experienced some of its trials and hardships. A horse was 
taken from him, and several times he removed his family from the town to escape threatened fire and 
devastation. He visited the battlefields of Gettysburg and Antietam ; was detained once all night in 
the enemy's lines, and witnessed the horrors of the burning of Chambersburg. Lee's main army 
marched past his house on its way to Gettysburg, the General himself passing by at six o'clock in the 
morning in a closed carriage in the rain. 

In"i865 he was called to the Presidency of Mercersburg College. Dr. Harbaugh was the mov- 
ing spirit of the founding of the new institution and was mainly instrumental in the selection of the 
President. He was a warm and intimate friend of Dr. Appel and this friendship grew and deepened 
until it was suddenly ended by death. Dr. Harbaugh died December 28, 1867, two years after the Col- 
lege had been under way, and his death was a great blow to the institution as well as to the Theological 
Seminary and the church at large. 

Dr. Nevin preached the funeral sermon in the Reformed church at Mercersburg. Dr. Appel then 
temporarily filled the chair of Dogmatics in the Seminary, and became the editor of the Mercersburg 
Review. He pays a splendid tribute to Dr. Harbaugh in the April number of the Review of 1868. 

Editing the Review, teaching Dogmatics, and at the same time filling his position as President of 
the College with all its details, his hands were kept full as may be imagined. But he had splendid 
health, worked rapidly, and never seemed to tire. He seemed to work all day and all night too. He 
lived in the cottage south of the Preparatory Building, and the school was conducted in the old Diag- 
nothian Hall, sometimes called "First Hall." In this hall he occupied the main room, teaching all day 
long from eight o'clock in the morning until four or five and often later in the evening, with a slight 
intermission at noon. He opened the school in the morning with worship at which he usually started 
the hvmn-tunes himself. He had entire charge of the schedule of the day and assembled and dismissed 
all classes, pulling a knob at his feet on the platform and ringing the bell in the class rooms below. I 
think at one time or another he taught every branch in the curriculum. 

He also preached in his turn in the chapel, looked after the financial and business interests of 
the institution, heard all complaints (even about boarding) and administered all discipline. No won- 
der every night saw his light burning late in his study window. 

The institution was primitive in all its appointments and it seemed audacious to call it a College. 
But if Mark Hopkins, a pupil, and a log constituted a University, why should it not aspire to become 
a college? There were three teachers to begin with : Dr. Appel, Professor Kieffer and Miss Anna 
Beall. But the teaching force was soon increased and Seminary Professors and theological students 
lent a helping hand. Dr. Higbee, Professor Jacob Kershner and Nathan C. Shaeflfer (now State 
Superintendent) taught classes in the Seminary Building. The students marched backwards and for- 
wards through the village in going to and from their recitations in this building; and on Sundays 
marched over to attend services in the Seminary Chapel. And what sermons were preached in that 
little chapel ! One Sunday it would be the poetic and original Harbaugh ; another Sunday, the scholar- 
ly Higbee, another Sunday, Dr. .\ppel (who, it was said, had the philosophical temperament) ; and 
at another time Jacob Kershner. Professor Kieffer could seldom be induced to preach, as he always 
said he had enough to do with teaching. 

The gymnasium consisted of one lone, solitary horizontal bar. The students chopped their own 
wood and carried it to their rooms. How merrily rang the campus with the sound of the wood chop- 
pers ! There was music in Professor KieiTer's axe as he made the chips fly. Huge piles of hickory wood 
filled the campus, and it was fine sport to pull the logs out from under the snow and chop them up, 
and in the evening watch them burn while the joke went 'round, and old Boreas rocked the building 
to its foundations. 

The students made their beds and swept their rooms; and some even boarded themselves, their 
chief diet being corn pone and syrup. But they accomplished wonders in their studies. There were no 
distractions. There was nothing to do but study. There was little to talk about but Greek roots and 
mathematics and science and philosophy ; and the institution soon took high rank for scholarship. Dis- 
cipline was not so much a matter of rule as of honor. 




TWcl-Tor MurXTAIX 




mh *rr^raburg "3 



There were ghosts in those days about the Seminary Building. One morning one of the ghosts 
was found laid up with a broken jaw. One Hallow-e'en 'the bovs laid a railroad through the streets 
of the village. The track was built of boards taken from Mr. Waidlich's lumber vard. Mr. VVaid- 
lich appeared upon the scene and gave one of the boys with a sore thumb a twist until he cried for 
mercy. X'o further discipline was needed. 

Saturday was a holiday and the boys flew to the mountains or the Conococheague, or scoured the 
country in search of adventure, exploring caves, etc. There was a cave near Upton where robbers and 
runaway slaves used to hide. Sometimes it was a trip to Kasey's Knob, or Parnell, or to the Four 
Moss Hills to gather arbutus, or to McCurdy's Hole for a swim. 

The mail was brought once a day by stage from Greencastle. At the first screech of the brakes of 
the old stage on the hill outside of town, down went books and there was no more studv until "Old 
Moses" arrived with the mail from the postoffice. The distribution of the mail was the event of the 
day. It was the only touch with the great outside world. 

"Old Moses" was a character, and belongs to the Mercersburg of that period. He was an old 
manumitted slave and was a servant at Dr. Appel's ; but he also carried the mail and did chores around 
the College. He was most obliging to every one, and indeed the institution could not have gotten 
along without Moses any more than it could have done without Dr. Appel. He really imagined him- 
self the major-demo. He played the flute and his repertoire was made up mainly of plantation music 
of the slavery days; but his liquid notes entranced every one as they filled the air with their weird mel- 
ody, especially on moonlight nights. Professor Kiefifer also played the flute, but his music was of an- 
other sort — always a delight to hear. 

Elder Jacob Heyser, of Chambersburg, was the institution's right hand man. He contributed lib- 
erally of his means when any special funds were needed, and many a financial lift he gave that no one 
knew aught of. A new pair of steps was once needed at the Hall. It would cost sixty dollars, and 
there was no money in sight. "Go ahead with the work,"' he said, with a twinkle in his eye. "I have 
a field of rye ready to harvest that will yield just about that amount, I'll use that as a thank offering for 
the crop." 

There was co-education in those days. The ladies always carried off the honors. The bovs who 
studied to make marks sometimes thought the teachers exercised an unjust discrimination in favor of 
the weaker sex. Some love matches were formed ; but it would take volumes to rehearse that phase of 
those old Mercersburg days. 

The liturgical controversy was then at its height, and the discussion with Dr. Dorner was mak- 
ing Mercersburg known beyond the seas. 

Dr. Nevin was writing on the Person of Christ ; and Dr. Higbee was publishing a scries of bril- 
liant articles on the Pericopes. The church was passing through an interesting period in its history, 
and Mercersburg Theologv was becoming more and more crystalized into a system. Dr. Ajjpel's con- 
tributions to the Review at this period were on the following subjects : Churchliness ; The Sacramen- 
tal and Experimental in the Mystical Union; The Humanity of Christ; The Church and the State; The 
Catholic Church JMovcment ; Church Union; Christian Nurture; Theories of the Atonement; General 
Synod; The True Doctrine of Realism in its Bearings on Theology (a criticism of Newman's posi- 
tion) ; Religious Orders in the Church; The Infancy of Christ; The Relation of the Formal and Ma- 
terial Principles of Protestantism to the Principles of Christianity, etc., etc. 

In November, 1871, he moved his family to Lancaster to enter upon his duties as Professor of 
Church History in the Seminary. There were sad hearts as those mountains — "Oh ! those mountains, 
their infinite movement," — faded from view. 

At Lancaster he soon established a reputation as a preacher, a writer and a teacher. He taught 
in the College as did also the other Seminary professors; and when Dr. Nevin retired from public life 
in 1877, lie was elected President of the College, which position he filled, together with his position in 
the Seminary, for a period of twelve years. Based on Dr. Nevin's notes he prepared and wrote out 
lectures on Aesthetics and Ethics ; and in the Seminary he worked up a new course on History of Phil- 
osophy. These courses became popular with the students. 

In i88g he resigned the Presidency of the College, on account of failing health, and confined him- 
self to teaching in the Seminary. In giving up the College he remarked — "I fell as if I had lost a 
child." 

He was deeply interested in the general affairs of the church, and for a period of over thirty 
years was a delegate to his Svnod. He was President of the Synod at Hagerstown, Md., in 1868; 



H4 (§{h MtmxBhnxQ 

and of the General Svnod at Reading, Pa., in 1893. He was a member of the Peace Commission ; of the 
Committee on the Order of Worship; and was Chairman of the Joint Committee to effect a union of 
the two Reformed Churches in America. He was a delegate to the Alliance of Reformed Churches, which 
met in Belfast, Ireland, in 1884, where he read a paper on the "Theology of the Heidelberg Cate- 
chism," and at the meeting in London, in 1888, he read a paper on "Liturgical Worship," and made 
one of the farewell addresses. At the meeting in Toronto, Canada, in 1892, he was Chairman of the 
Business Committee. 

Dr. Appel was one of the founders of "The Cliosophic Society," of Lancaster, and its President 
from the day of its organization, in November, 1879, to the time of his death. The degree of Ph. D. 
was conferred upon him by Lafayette College in 1867, and LL. D. by the same institution in 1886; 
that of D. D. by Franklin and Marshall College in 1869. He was one of the founders and the first 
President of "The Association of Colleges and Preparatory Schools of the Middle States and Mary- 
land." 

Dr. Appel was blessed with a family of eleven children, six sons and five daughters. He died 
Saturday morning, September 17, 1898. The funeral services were held in the College Chapel, when 
addresses were delivered by Drs. Gerhart, Titzel, Wagner, and Bausman. He was buried in the Lan- 
caster Cemeterv. It is stated that one of his life-long co-laborers once said : "Dr. Appel is the great- 
est preacher in the church." 

Dr. Gerhart said of him, "His faith in Christ was the fundamental principle of his investiga- 
tions and his thinking," and Dr. Titzel's tribute to his memory, "He was exceedingly lucid and log- 
ical. In every respect he was a model theologian." Dr. N. C. Schaeffer said, "He was one of those 
gifted spirits who could teach anything to which he chose to turn his attention." 

Of his talents Dr. Callender said : "We are accustomed to think of Dr. Appel as a teacher, a 
theologian, as a philosophical thinker. He was a concrete, rather than an abstract or logical thinker." 
While of his work among the young Dr. Bowman said : "A more successful manager of boys has 
iq JO ;u3iX3 31JJL 'ip-inip sq; ui ua\ou>i uaaq jaAauaqj Suipinoui puB puiui 3\\i Suideqs ui aouanyui s 
character of the Mercersburg boys no one can estimate." 

W. U. Hensel, speaking of his duties as President of the Clio, said : "Dr. Appel had the phil- 
osophic temperament, combined with the critical spirit and readiness of expression, to such a degree 
that all of these duties rested lightly upon him and seemed to be easily discharged." 

Another memeber of the Clio wrote : "Nowhere did Dr. Appel's social qualities shine forth more 
brightly than when presiding over the debates in the Clio. Everyone felt the charm of his courteous 
manner and his winning personality." 

His Mercersburg boys, as was the case with all his pupils, not only respected him as a teacher, but 
loved him as a man. In his personality, heart and intellect were singularly well balanced. As Dr. 
J. Spangler Kicfifer well expressed it : "One of the principal characteristics of Dr. Appel always 
seemed to us to be the remarkable manner in which thought and feeling were in him combined. He 
was as warm hearted as he was clear headed. When he expressed himself, one was conscious not only 
of light, but also of warmth. He was a person of great tenderness of feeling; subtle, sympathetic, 
kind; an affectionate nature and needing affection. This was manifest, not only in many particular 
ways, especially in the warmth of his attachment tn his friends, but it was diffused throughout all 
that he said and did." 

When failing health overtook him and the shadows began to thicken, he wrote to his life-long 
friend, Dr. Bausman : "I must get rest. One cannot endure a strain that has no cessation. Your 
letter came to me like the odor of sweet flowers, and awakened those pleasant, subdued feelings that 
come from a quiet talk — pia desidcna — in the gloaming hour, when all nature begins to go to rest." 

And so it was, as he laid down his pilgrim staff he felt that his work was done, and he longed for 
the realities beyond. So far as his personal life was concerned, some of his happiest days were spent 
at Mercersburg. "That is a very green spot in memory — those Mercersburg days." — he was wont to 
say. 

Verily, there is something sacred about the Spirit of Mercersburg ; and we do well to honor those 
who have helped to make it what it is. May we express the hope that while sooner or later all Mer- 
cersburg Boys must pass away, the Spirit of Mercersburg shall never, — never die. 

John W. Appel 



lElnatljatt Btalfa Tjftgbfp, i. i., SSI. i. 

'•/^'LNATHAN Elisha Higbee was born at St. George, near Burlington, Vermont, March 27, 1830, 
iL*- the youngest of ten children. His parents were Lewis and Sarah (Baker) Higbee. He 
WiZ. graduated from the University of Vermont in 1849. In the latter part of 185 1, or early in 
>ri^ 1852, he came to Mercersburg to enter the Theological Seminary of the Reformed Church. 
In 1854 he was Hcensed to preach the Gospel. His first regular 'charge was in a Congrega- 
tional church at Bethel, Vt. In 1859 he was called to the pastorate of the First Reformed Church of 
Tiffin, Ohio. While there he also filled the chair of Latin and Greek in Heidelberg College. In 1862 
he removed to Pittsburgh, Pa., to become the pastor of Grace Reformed Church. In 1864' he returned 
to Mercersburg, as Professor of Church History and New Testament Exegesis in the Theological Semi- 
nary, as the successor of Dr. Philip Schafif. Here he soon made himself felt as a brilliant exponent of 
what was known as "Mercersburg Theology," and became a potent force in the leadership of the Re- 
formed Church. 

At this point it seems fitting that a word should be said about the foundation of Mercersburg Col- 
lege, with whose history, from its inception to its close. Dr. Higbee's name and personality are so 
closely inwoven. From 1836 to 1853 Marshall College was located at Mercersburg. From 1853 to 
1865 a preparatory school, under various names, was maintained in more or less close, though unofficial, 
connection with the Theological Seminary. Mercersburg was a College town, in many respects an 
ideal College town, whose name, good will, and prestige as an educational center of high repute repre- 
sented a potential value that must have been powerfully suggestive to the earnest and thoughtful men 
who were at that time on the ground. Indeed at this very time, Dr. Harbaugh, referring to the removal 
of Marshall College to Lancaster, said, with grim humor it was thought, "The Professors are there 
(Lancaster), but the cathedral is still at Strassburg." At any rate the idea of a College at Mercers- 
burg could not have seemed strange to any one who considered all the elements at hand. One of the 
greatest difficulties in the first years of such an institution is to provide adequate quarters for it. In 
this case they were right at hand, waiting to be used. There was also a deep, but silent, feeling that 
a large section of the church had been unjustly treated in the removal of Marshall College. The 
greater part of its endowment, it was claimed, had been collected west of the Ijlue Ridge and south 
of the Susquehanna. Thus to re-occupy the buildings, which could not be carried off, seemed an easy, 
as well as the natural, thing to do. Moreover the men who were active in the movement were children 
(loosely speaking) of that section of the Reformed Church. Dr. Henry Harbaugh conceived the 
idea ; he was the originator of the plan, and to his superior executive talent is due the swift progress 
made in working out the details of organization. He was the first President of the Board of Regents; 
and his amazing energy was a tower of strength that could ill be spared when he died two years later 
(December, 1867). 

From the beginning Dr. Higbee was prominently identified with the movement; and when, in the 
fall of 1865, the College was opened, with Rev. Thomas G. Appel as its first President, he bore a 
good share of the labor and care in the difficult task of building up a College against the most fonuid- 
able odds of all sorts. Laboring thus, in season and out of season, studying, teaching, preaching, lec- 
turing, writing articles for the "Reformed Quarterly Review," of which he was co-editor, and for the 
"Reformed Messenger," of which he was a synodical editor; and sen'ing upon some of the most im- 
portant committees by appointment of the highest judicatory of the church, notably that whose labors 
resulted in the publication of "Hymns for the Reformed Church," which in its ultimate form, one of 
his colleagues on the sub-committee of three says, "would have been an impossibility, had he not first 
made such an excellent study of the theory and construction of the Church Year, on which the collec- 
tion was to be based;" all of which implies the most intense activity, whereby his physical resources 
were severely drained, with an utter disregard of personal ease and comfort ; and his intellectual and 
spiritual resources were multiplying themselves by use and development into the splendid attainments 
that crowned his later years. 

115 



"6 (§[h MnnYBhntQ 

In 1871 there came a crisis in his life, brought on by the consummation of the efforts that had for 
some time been making for the removal of the Theological Seminary to Lancaster. Should he stay at 
his post and by accompanying the Seminary sever his close, though as yet unofficial, connection with 
the young and struggling College which lay so near his heart, and which was then about to send 
forth its first small class of graduates? To understand the severity of the ordeal through which he 
passed, requires a knowledge of details and circumstances connected with the inner history of this 
whole transaction that cannot here be given. It is enough to say that he decided in favor of the Col- 
lege, therebv voluntarily relinquishing one of the most honorable trusts in the gift of the Reformed 
Church, a professorship congenial to his tastes and carrying with it the assurance by constitutional 
provision, of comfortable maintenance to the end of his life. Dr. Appel, with whom he expected to be 
happily yoked together in what seemed to be the mutually cherished purpose of pulling the young in- 
stitution' through its "heavy beginnings," considered it his duty to resign the Presidency of Mercers- 
burg College, in order to accepta call to the position vacated by Dr. Higbee in the Theological Semi- 
nary. This sorely complicated matters, adding an entirely unforeseen element to difficulties which 
many regarded as already of an insuperable character. It was then, with the keenest sense of the tre- 
mendous responsibility he was assuming, that he consented to become the President of the College ; but 
it was also with high resolve and noble purpose that he entered upon the vigorous prosecution of the 
manifold and onerous duties of the office, which he filled from the fall of 1871 to the fall of 1880, 
when for lack of funds the institution was compelled to close its doors. Of its sixty-one graduates, 
twenty-nine entered the Christian ministry. 

In the spring of 1881 Dr. Higbee received from Governor Hoyt the appointment of State Super- 
intendent of Public Instruction of Pennsylvania. This necessitated his moving away from Mercers- 
burg to a place nearer the State capital. He entered upon the duties of his office with great zeal and 
enthusiasm. Coming from a life of comparative obscurity, his course was watched with the keenest 
scrutiny, and in many quarters with serious misgivings; but he very soon won his way into the inner 
heart of the school men of the State, and in an incredibly short time he enjoyed in unstinted measure 
the confidence of his co-laborers — the lh'i)ig forces and factors which came under his direction and in- 
spiration, and which he ever regarded as of infinitely more value than the most ingenious machinery 
that might be devised in the interest of system and organization. In pleading, as he so often did, for 
the more generous financial support of the schools, with the immediate view of inviting and retaining 
the "very ablest teachers," he says : "However complete our system may be, and however skilfully 
arranged our appliances and methods, without the presence of earnest and thoroughly qualified living 
men — without the moulding power of their character and lives upon our children — soul speaking to 
soul, deep answering to deep, with a voice infinitely more profound and mightier than any written 
book — the work must fail, and the money virtually be thrown away." 

His wishes and hopes were of a twofold character; on the one hand, to see the public schools 
of the commonwealth, with all their collateral interests, developed to their highest possibility ; on the 
other, to effect, or at least to aid in effecting, an integration of all the educational interests of the State, 
so that as properly correlated organs of the one body, they might co-operate for the advancement of the 
body politic — that the superior culture of the higher might be brought to aid and strengthen the lower. 
How far his aims were realized, we may not definitely state ; but that he did very effective pioneer 
work in restandardizing educational practice by higher ideals, is universally acknowledged. 

In the spring of 1885 he was re-appointed by Governor Pattison, although of opposite political 
views; and again, in 1889, he was continued in office by Governor Beaver, but he did not live the year 
out. On December 10, i88g, in the midst of his Institute work, he was stricken with apoplexy at 
Mifflin .Station, from which there was no return to consciousness. On December 13th. at Lancaster, 
Pa., the spirit took its flight, and Dr. Higbee was at rest. He was buried at Emmitsburg, Md. 

Dr. Higbee was a man of unusual talents, and conspicuous among his natural gifts was a fine 
aesthetic sense, a love for the beautiful in every form of its manifestation, which, strengthened and 
chastened by culture, gave color and tone to almost all that he did and said. Touching his more pub- 
lic character, I am inclined to think that his greatest power lay in his ministry as a steward of the 
mysteries of grace. I do not forget that as an instructor in the class room he' was unsurpassed and 
had few equals. But that which made him so masterful in unfolding the truth of a particular science 
and_ awakening the susceptibilities necessary for its apprehension and appropriation on the part of his 
pupils, was that settled habit of his mind, according to which he steadily and persistently subordinated 



all the manifold forms of truth to the one great overshadowing truth as it is in Christ, "the Truth." 
Neither do I forget that, upon a memorable occasion, Dr. Higbee himself said, "In remembering that I 
am a clergyman, I do not forget that I am a man." Manhood was the supreme thing, but a manhood 
as glorified in the "Perfect Man," that great central fact of our life, which in its comprehensive large- 
ness includes all the functional activities of our earthly existence, and is greater than the preacher, the 
teacher, the laborer in whatever sphere. In laying aside, therefore, the distinctive robes of his min- 
isterial office to be clothed with the authority of the State as the Superintendent of its schools, he did 
not lay aside his high calling in Christ Jesus, but continued in season and out of season to do his 
Master's will as a preacher of righteousness, the only difference being that his field of activity had now 
widened out into proportions of almost boundless extent. These reflections need no expansion here, 
and are only thrown out as constituting an essential factor for consideration in estimating the character 
and full significance of the work he accomplished as State Superintendent. 

Of this work, in its deeper undercurrents, exact language cannot be used ; there is a subtle some- 
thing in the quality of it, which defies analysis and eludes the power of description. But so far as it 
can be done, I believe the following is a conservative estimate : 

"Dr. Higbee did three things for the schools of Pennsylvania : One, educational in the highest 
sense, whose value can be best appreciated only by the minority, in that he taught a more reverent atti- 
tude towards the immortal work of training the young, for with him the outcome for Eternity was al- 
ways near to the life and movement of Time. He put into the minds of thoughtful men and women 
everywhere in the State higher ideals of intellectual and moral attainments, for in himself he stood — 
unconsciously, but none the less truly — an embodiment of the highest type of unselfish Christian man- 
hood, and a splendid ideal realized of that generous scholarship, which is at home everywhere in his- 
tory and rich in the best treasure of all the ages. 

"In the second place, his unerring practical sense recognized the fact that, while the majority of 
men could not see the higher truth as he saw it, all could appreciate the value of increased funds in 
the treasury of the school district. He addressed himself early to the question of ways and means, as 
well as to the education of school officers, that they might see aright the duty before them. For a 
period of ten years no advance had been made upon the State a]jpropriation, and unless the State were 
educated to see this matter in its true bearings, he saw that none was likely to be secured for an in- 
definite period. It was six years before he succeeded in securing an advance upon the million dollars 
per year named in the Constitution of 1873. A half million was then added. Once the break had been 
made, the increase came of its own momentum. In 1889 he got two millions more easily than the mil- 
lion and a half from the preceding Legislature; and like the rush of waters as the current grows in 
depth and power, came the magnificent appropriation of $5,000,000 by the Legislature of 1891. For 
this increase of the State appropriation beyond the million dollars named in the State Constitution, 
more credit is due to Dr. Higbee than to any other man, living or dead. 

"And third, he introduced Arbor Day into Pennsylvania, with its beneficent thought of tree plant- 
ing and tree preservation, which has since been observed in the spring and fall of every year through- 
out the Commonwealth. 

"This paper would be incomplete without alluding to the fund of nearly five thousand dollars raised 
under the auspices of the State Teachers' Association, and devoted to the formation of a memorial to 
Dr. Higbee from the schools of Pennsylvania — a memorial which, as it finally took shape, is without a 
parallel in the history of education in America. The features of this memorial are: First, a monu- 
ment over his grave 'at Emmitsburg— a simple block of granite, brought from his own New England, 
of many tons in weight ; upon it cut a massive cross, with brief record of name and rank and dates ; by 
whom erected ; then four words of epitaph that a noble heart may win, but the wealth of Indies can- 
not buy— 'O man, greatly beloved.' (Daniel x, 19). Second, a life-size portrait, of which more than 
twelve' thousand copies were issued and distributed among the schools and offices of Superintendents 
in every section of the State. Third, a bust in bronze, of heroic size, placed in the State Department of 
Public Instruction at Harrisburg. And fourth, a memorial volume of loving personal tributes and ap- 
preciations from many sources, of which ten thousand copies were printed. This last is 'worth vastly 
more than all the rest 'combined, for it everywhere bears witness to the spirit that makes for righteous- 
ness, to the outflowing of a power for go'od, which to have set in motion in so many lives is work that 
is indeed worthy of the very elect of God.' 

"Let the living live; and you, gather together your thoughts, leave behind you a legacy of feehng 
and ideas; you will be most useful so." George F. Mull 



m 



' HEN the way was opened for emigration to the New World, the Presbyterians of Ulster, not 
being allied to Ireland by any long standing traditions or sacred memories, and being sub- 
ject to many and varied grievances, were attracted in large numbers to the free Province 
of Pennsylvania. They landed in great numbers at Wilmington, Del., from 1700 to 1750, 
and from there drifted across to Chester and Bucks counties, Pennsylvania, thence to Lan- 
caster and Dauphin counties, and over the Susquehanna to the Kittochtinny V^alley — "The valley of 
endless mountains" — and settled along the Conodoguinet and Conococheague creeks and the great 
springs with which the valley abounds. Here is where many of the earliest churches and ministers are 
found. 

To this new land they brought with them an ardent love for their church, its doctrines, its forms 
of worship, its polity. Coming as they did out of those fierce and protracted persecutions which they and 
their fathers had endured in Ireland and Scotland, they came with their Bibles and "Confession of 
Faith" in their hands, and well stored away in their minds. Hence they early and eagerly sought to 
be supplied with ministers and regular means of grace. These early ministers from Ireland and Scot- 
land were educated men, with thorough collegiate and theological training. As a consequence their 
principals were well defined and settled. Their preaching was of the most edifying kind ; they did not 
seek to entertain their hearers with mere declamations or ethical preaching, but they taught the doc- 
trines of the Bible, and did not overlook or fail to teach the duties of religion. 

This immediate part of the Kittochtinny Valley, called the "Conococheague Settlement," began to 
be settled by the Scotch-Irish about 1730. In their fatherland they belonged to the Presbyterian 
Church, and among the first things which claimed their attention in their new home was the organ- 
ization of a church according to the faith of their fathers. This took place here in 1738. The settle- 
ment was called the "Upper West Conococheague," and covered an area about fourteen miles square. 
At this early period there were but few of any other denominations of Christians in this large field. 
The Presbyterian church predominated, its members being the first and almost the sole possessors of the 
soil. Some diversity of opinion arose as to the location of the "Meeting house." The choice lay between 
the beautiful spring at Waddell's graveyard, near Bridgeport, and the fine spring at what is now known 
as Church Hill. The latter was selected, and the warrant for the land taken out by William Max- 
well and William Campbell. Here the rude log church was erected. Like all the churches of that day, 
it was cheerless and uncomfortable in the extreme ; even the luxury of a fire in midwinter was a thing un- 
known. Owing to the perils connected with the Indians, this church was surrounded by a Stockade or 
Fort, where the inhabitants of the community could betake themselves in times of danger. 

From its organization in 1738 to 1754 there was no settled minister here. Then they called Rev. 
John Steel to become their pastor. Mr. Steel was born in Ireland and was licensed by the Presby- 
tery of Londonderry. He came to America in 1742, and was taken under the care of the New Castle 
Presbytery, ordained and installed pastor of the church of New London in Chester county, Pennsyl- 
vania, in 1745, where he continued to preach until he came to Mercersburg, in 1754. He remained here 
two years, though in most troublesome and exciting times. The whole frontier country was overrun 
by Indian raids, and as a consequence, the settlement was disturbed and scattered, families broken up, 
and the congregation for a time disbanded. Mr. Steel, as all accounts of him agree, was a man of great 
courage and firmness, and of unquestioned soundness in the faith. He carried his rifle with him to 
the place of worship, and had it by his side ready for use at a moment's notice during the service. When 
an attack was feared, it was a common thing for him to gather a company of riflemen together, and 
lead them with great prudence and courage in pursuit of the savages. Because of the frequency of 
these attacks the congregation was dispersed, and Mr. Steel left for another field of labor. He was 
a man of pure and exemplary life, revered and admired by all for his bravery. He was a good 
preacher, and beloved as a pastor. He died in August, 1779, and his remains lie buried in the old 
cemetery of Carlisle, Pennsylvania. 

118 







K^ 



^ 



.^ 



j-\ 



PRESBYTERIAX CHURCH, FRONT VIEW 
Built ill 17!M at Mf rcersburg 




PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, SIDE VIEW 
Built in 1794 at Mercersburg 



After the return of the people to their desolated homes, they reorganized themselves into a con- 
gregation, and received supplies from the Presbytery until in 1762-63, "the settlement was again dis- 
turbed by the Indians, and once more the church was almost broken up. But though few in numbers, 
and laboring under great difficulties, they clung together as a church, and while it scarcely had an 
existence, it still lived to administer comfort and encouragement to them in their trying circumstances. 
After passing through many and great trials, in 1767 we find the church permanently estab- 
lished, and in a more prosperous condition than it had ever been. Its members, feeling the imi)ortance 
of a settled ministry among them, invited Mr. John King, a young man from the Presbvtery of Phil- 
adelphia, to preach for them for a time. John King was born December 5, 1740, and being a stu- 
dious boy was placed in a classical school at the age of thirteen, and continued there until he had ac- 
quired considerable knowledge of Latin and Greek. He taught school for a time, and came to this 
neighborhood, where he had a sister living, and for three years taught school. The Indian war in- 
creasing, and his sister, with whom he made his home, being killed by them, also the fact of his 
school declining, decided him to return to his home in Lancaster county. He remained for a year, 
perplexed as to what vocation he should follow in life. After much reflection and prayer, he decided 
to enter the ministry. He next went to the College of Philadelphia, where he graduated in 1767, then 
studied divinity. After he was licensed to preach, he came to the settlement on a visit, and in the fol- 
lowing spring, 1769, he was called to the pastorate of the Upper West Conococheague church, being 
ordained and installed the following August. At the time of his settlement here the congregation 
numbered 130 families and the session was composed of the following: William Maxwell, William 
Smith, John McDowell, William McDowell, John Welsh, Alexander White, John McClelland, Jona- 
than Smith, William Campbell, Robert Fleming, Samuel Templeton.- In 1792 William Waddle, James 
Crawford, Archibald Irwin, and John Holliday were added to the session, and in 1799 John McMul- 
lin, John Johnston, Edward Welsh, William Reynolds, Robert McFarland and John McCullough 
were added. How few of these old names are in the congregation today ! The elders, in those days, 
were highlv esteemed for their office sake. They were spiritual overseers of the flock, who looked after 
the needs of the people, and made known their wants to the pastor. The .services were plain and sim- 
ple, but solemn and impressive. The singing purely congregational, the clerk or precentor stood just 
below the pulpit, in full view of the congregation, and would "line out" the Psalm, and take the lead in 
some familiar tune, when all the people would join with him, praising God with all their hearts. 
There were two services held each Sabbath, in the morning and in the afternoon. Everj'one took a 
lunch with them, and gathered about the spring to eat it, then, after an hour's intermission, they as- 
sembled again in their pews and listened to another sermon. 

The communion was held twice a year, spring and fall. The preparatory services commencing 
on Friday preceding, and ending the following Monday. Sometimes Thursday was observed as a day 
of fasting, humiliation and prayer. These were seasons never to be forgotten by the Children of God 
in those early times. They loved to gather around the table of the Lord, where He so graciously 
revealed himself to them in' the breaking of bread. All secular duties were laid aside, and nothing but 
absolute necessity kept them from attending these services. 

The Saturday preceding the communion, each church member was given a "token" by an Elder. 
This was a small' round piece of metal about the size of a dime, and was returned to the Elder after 
the communicants had taken their places at the tabic. The "token"' was a testimonial that the person 
holding it was entitled to the privilege of coming to the Lord's table. The use of it was discontinued 
in February, 1845. The communion-tables were stretched the length of each aisle, covered with a 
white cloth, and a bench on each side, the bread and wine being passed along by an Elder. When those 
first seated had communed, a hvmn was sung, and they quietly went back to their pews, while others 
would take their places at the table until all had been served. It was a solemn and impressive service. 
The minister would address the comnnmicants on the great privilege they had enjoyed, and always 
took this occasion to speak a word to those who did not accept Christ and confess Him as their Savior. 

Dr. King was here but a few \ears when the Colonies began to be excited from one extreme to 
the other on the subject of their c'onncction with Great Britain. They had become more resolute, and 
determined to maintain their rights and defend them at all hazards. The historian Bancroft says : 
"The first public voice in America for dissolving all connection with Great Britain came not from the 
Puritan of New England, the Dutch of New York, nor the planter of Virginia, but from the Scotch- 
Irish Presbyterian." 



120 mh MnatBbnv^ 



The crisis had been reached, and the country was in arms. The same spirit which pervaded the 
country at large, pervaded the minds of the people here, and the spirit of patriotism was kindled in 
them. In calling out this spirit and fostering it, Dr. King was second to none of the Presbyterian 
clergymen of his day. He not only volunteered his services and went as Chaplain to the battalion 
which marched from this part of the country, but many were the sermons preached, and addresses 
which he delivered in behalf of the liberties of his country. Dr. King labored with great acceptance 
among this people. The state of the congregation was peaceful and prosperous ; at every communion 
season there were accessions to the membership. He was greatly beloved by his people, and stood 
high with his brother ministers. They relied on his judgment and came to him for advice. He was 
honored, in 1792, by being made Moderator of the General Assembly, and in the same year Dickinson 
College conferred the degree of Doctor of Divinity upon him. He was a man of piety, a fine preacher 
and faithful pastor. His labors were owned of God, and eminently blessed in building up this church. 
His marriage record is the longest and best preserved in the Cumberland Valley, and his baptismal 
record is itself a genealogy of the Conococheague, which reaches over the United States. 

During Dr. King's ministry the original church building was twice enlarged. It stood across 
the road, just opposite the gate into the graveyard, and the land adjacent was all owned by the congre- 
gation. It was covered with the old primeval trees, which served as shade and hitching places for 
the horses. In looking over old records we find this interesting account of the sale of the land : 

"October 15, 1773, William McClelland sold five (5) acres and 17 perches land for 10 pounds, to 
James Campbell, John McClelland and James Maxwell Esq., their heirs, in trust, for the use of the 
congregation now belonging to the Rev. Mr. King, of Peters township, adjoining lands of Dr. Rich- 
ard Brownson, Josiah McKinney, William McClelland, John McClelland, part of a tract of 250 acres, 
granted to William McClelland by Proprietaries of Penna in 1753." 

Dr. King married Miss Elizabeth McDowell, a member of his church, and their home was a large 
house built on a hill a half mile from Bridgeport. It is still standing, well preserved. Dr. King was 
pastor of this church for forty-two years, during the last four years of which he was greatly afflicted 
with rheumatism and was obliged to preach sitting in a chair in the pulpit. This chair is still owned 
by the congregation, has an honored place in the church and is cherished as a sacred relic. Fearing 
his usefulness was at an end, he resigned his charge September 11, 181 1. He became entirely helpless, 
but lived until July 15, 1813. His remains lie in the old graveyard at Church Hill, where stood the old 
church in which he so faithfully preached the Gospel of Christ. A marble tombstone was erected over 
his grave, bearing this beautiful inscription : "As a tribute of respect to the memory of the Rev. 
John King, D. D., upwards of forty-two years, the able, learned and faithful pastor of the congrega- 
tion of Upper West Conococheague, whose life exhibited the beautv of holiness ; whose death declared 
the triumph of the cross, this monument is erected by the grateful children of his pastoral care. 
'They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmanent; and they that turn many to right- 
eousness, as the stars forever and ever.' " 

Sr. lEUuitfa f aatorate 

This ancient church was without a pastor for over a year, when it called Rev. David Elliott. He 
was born in 1787, in Perry county, Pennsylvania, and received his education in the best classical schools 
of his day. He taught for a time, then entered Dickinson College, where he graduated in 1808. He 
studied theology, and was licensed to preach in 181 1. He received a unanimous call to this church, 
and was ordained and installed in October, 1812. When he entered on his labors here the congrega- 
tion numbered one hundred and thirty-seven families. It grew under his preaching and it was found 
necessary to build a new and larger church in the country. This was done in 1819, and opened and 
dedicated in January, 1820, at a cost of si.x thousand dollars. The town of Mercersburg had been laid 
out in 1786, and, its population rapidly increasing, it was thought there ought to be a place of worship 
in the town. Consequently the stone church was erected in 1794, which is still occupied by the congre- 
gation. It stood for a number of years without ceiling, floor, pews, or pulpit, and was not used. The 
ground on which it and the parsonage stand was the gift of the Hon. Robert Smith. After the town 
church was finished, the services were equally divided between it and the country church. Dr. Elliott's 
home was a half mile from the latter, a fine stone mansion, which is still standing, in excellent repair. 
His pastorate was peculiarly blessed of God, and while it covered a period of only seventeen years, he 



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AS early as 177.'. 



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baptised 655 persons and received into the membership of the church 340. The Sabbath school was 
organized in 1816, and the prayer meeting established in 1818; both of them connected with the town 
church. The Female Domestic Missionary Society was formed in 1825, with eighty-three members, 
more by far than the membership is now ; but it is worthy of remark that there are but one or two socie- 
ties of the kind within the bounds of our General Assembly which have been in existence so long. In 
the period of eighty-six years, it has contributed almost fifty-five hundred dollars to missions. 

The people here were devotedly attached to Dr. Elliott ; he was all they desired as a preacher and 
pastor, and it was with the deepest grief that the congregation consented to his accepting a call from 
Washington, Pa., but he felt the call was from God. He remained there six years, then was called to 
a Professorship in the Theological Seminary at Allegheny. In this new field Dr. Elliott found his life 
work, where he remained till called to his home above. He was honored, as Dr. King was, by being 
made Moderator of the General Assembly. He died March 18, 1874, aged eighty-seven years. A 
memorial service was held in this church at the time of his death, and a sermon preached on the life and 
labor of Dr. Elliott by the pastor. Of the three hundred and forty persons who united with the 
church under his ministry, but four were living at that time in the congregation. 

After two years vacancy, the Rev. Thomas Creigh received a unanimous call to the pastorate of 
this church. He was young to assume the responsibility of such a large congregation, but relying on 
the promise of his divine Master for help and strength he came, and was ordained and installed Novem- 
ber 17, 1831. When he came the church building in town was extremely plain, neither galleries, pews 
or ceiling had ever been painted, nor had it ever had a carpet. The pulpit was in the north end, be- 
tween the doors, and there were also two doors in the south end. The only ornamentation about it 
was a few feet of wall paper back of the pulpit. The galleries extended around the sides and across 
the south end. The ground around and back of the church was used as a graveyard, and was a beau- 
tiful spot, but in later years the bodies were all removed to Fairview Cemeter)'. In 1844 the edifice 
was entirely remodeled, the pulpit changed to the south end, the south gallery put to the north end, the 
doors at the south made into windows, and a vestibule added to the front of the building. 

In these early times there was quite a large membership of colored people who occupied the west 
gallery in the church, many of them worthy, respectable citizens. In 1843 the congregation decided to 
hold two-thirds of the services in the town church, and this arrangement continued until 1855, when it 
was thought best to abandon the old country church. Its walls were considered unsafe, and the greater 
number of families were living in the town, or nearer the church there. All that now remains to point 
out where the Gospel was preached for more than a century at Church Hill, is the graveyard, where 
lie the bodies of the sainted dead, who carried on the work of this church for so many years. In 1850 
the "Lecture Room" was built at a cost of six hundred dollars, and in i860 the bell was purchased, and 
belfry added, costing three hundred and thiry-five dollars. The Ladies' Mite Society was formed in 
1866 and has continued ever since, doing a good work. Its contributions to the present year, 191 1, 
amount to four thousand dollars. 

This church has a record that few can show. From 1769 to 1880, one hundred and eleven years, 
it had but three pastors. Dr. King, Dr. Elliott, and Dr. Creigh. To another has been assigned the 
life of Dr. Creigh, so we have not dwelt on his life and character. He was well called "the beloved 
of all." Mary Louisa McFarland 



OInmmumng m^mb^ris 



1770 



1774 



Josiah McKinney 
Walter McKinney 
Rhoda Galbreath 
Robert Galbreath 
William McClelland 
Catherine McElhattan 
Polly Smith 
Polly McDowell 



Rebecca Smith 
Isabel McMullen 
John Black 
Isaac Wilson 
]\Iary Barr 
William Holiday 
Alexander Maxwell 
Hannah Cochran 
Samuel McFerran 



Samuel Fleming 
William Kyle 
James Dickey 
William Shannon 
Agnes White 
Margaret McDowell 
Martha Templeton 
Joseph Read 
James Read 



William Huston 
Andrew Newberry 
Thomas Teals 
Samuel McElhattan 
Joseph Welsh 
Sarah Watson 
John McCullough 



1771 



Jean McCay 
Elizabeth Cunningham 
Robert Cunningham 
James Shannon 
Alexander Young 
Joseph Irwin 
Mary Oats 
Robert McClean 
Francis Dill 
Anne Dill 
William Rankin 
Lcttue McFarlin 



Agnes Thompson 
Mary McKinney 
Martha Marshall 
Rebecca Lowry 
Mary McCullough 
John Holliday 
Robert Hunter 
Thomas Maxwell 
Robert Newell 
John McClure 
James Irwin 
Robert Kyle 



1772 

John Dickey 
John Hunter 
David Moore 
Catherine McMullen 
Margaret Welsh 
Martha Irwin 
Elizabeth Irwin 
Hannah Hager 
Susanna Cellars 

1773 

William Kerr 
John Kerr 
Isabel Kerr 
Robert Shannon 
Ezekial Matthews 
John Work 
Isabel McKinnie 
Mary McElhattan 
Jean, a colored woman 



Joseph Neely 
James White 
James Woodburn 
William Elliott 
iMargaret Campbell 



Margaret McMullen 
Sarah Sturgeon 
William McFarlin 
Elizabeth Wilson 



1775 



John Brookie Catherine McCracken 

Agnes Myres Thomas Kyle 

Agnes French John Holiday 
James McCay (McCoy) Nathan McDowell 

James Welsh William Forsythe 

Matthew Vanlear Mary Kerr 
James McCracken 



John White 
Sarah Campbell 
Robert Campbell 
John Oats 
Anthony Clarke 



Martha Bigger 

Mrs. Elliott 

John Cunningham 
Joseph Shannon 



Archibald McElhattan 
James Irwin 
Polly Irwin 
Anne White 
Betsy Davis 



1776 

Samuel Fleming 
Samuel Torrence 
Alexander McKee 
William Pimm 
Hugh Davidson 

1777 

Jean Shannon 
James McDowell 
Anne Templeton 
Jean McConnell 

1778 

Hugh Shannon 
Alexander Templeton 
Mrs. Wm. Martin 
David Long 



Thomas Liicas 
Hance McCullough 
John Hogg 
Peggy Smith 
Fanny Spear 
Jean Dickey, 
Robert Dickey 
Daniel Fogler 



1779 

Tohn McDowell (of Wm.) 
"Polly jMcDowell 
Anabella McDowell 
Susanna McDowell 
Betsy Fleming 
Rachel Wilkv 
Polly Elliott 
lean Scott 



122 




THK CHfKCH HILL GItAVK V.\ KIJ 

The large tomb in the foreground marks the grave of Rev. John King. D. D. Many valuables 

were concealed within thi.s tomb during the Civil War. The four flat stones cover the 

graves of the Bards. The monument in tlie distance, surrounded by an Iron 

fence, marks tlie grave of Arcliibald Irwin. Samuel I'indlay. the 

Smiths, and other early settlers lie buried here. 



mh MmnBbnvQ 



123 



Samuel Walker 
Mrs. Walker 



1780 

Samuel Holiday 
John Helm 
William Smith 



1785 



Jean Parkhill 

Alexander McDowell (of Wm.) 

Nancy Irwin 

Jenny Campbell (of Patrick) 

Martha Kerr Hugh Cunningham 

Betsy Simms Finwell Campbell 

Polly Brady Sarah McCollister 

Andrew Dickey Pegg}- McKinney 

Mrs. Dickey Polly' Thompson' 

1781 

Rebecca Fleming John Marshall 

Jenny McClelland Polly Smith 

Mrs. Kirkpatrick Mrs. William Dickey 

James Walker John Bouch 

Janet Helm 



1782 



Edward Welsh 
Polly Welsh 
Nancy McDowell 
Peggy McDowell 
Jenny McDowell 
Nancy Means 
Martha Lemmon 
Peggy Lucas 
James Immais 
John Dickey 



Josiah Smith 
Esther Smith 
John Lang 
James Holiday 
Andrew McDowell 
Andrew Welsh 
Matthew White 
Gabriel Taggart 
Betsy Taggart 



Martha Dickey 
John Means 
Anne McKinney 
Jean Wilky 
Jean McIVIullen 
Mary McClelland 
William McCasland 
Thomas Campbell 
John Kirkpatrick 



1783 

Jennv Smith 
Polly Gilchirst 
Eleanor McCasland 

Mrs. Lucas 

Mary Biggert 
Thomas Irwin 

Mrs. Irwin 

Thomas Griffin 
Mrs. Griffin 

1784 



William Cunningham 

John McCall 

John Hart 

Thomas Craven 

Eleanor Craven 

Marv Scott 

Alex. McDowell (of Robert) 

Andrew Speedy Jean Irwin 

Anne Gilchrist 



Martilla Irwin 
Betsy Irwin 
Hannah Biggert 
Polly Scott 
James Cunningham 



John Findlay 
William McCay 

Shannon 

Robert Lowry 
Joseph Lowry 
Babby White' 
Jean Templeton 
Peggy Curtz 

Nancv Brownson 
Nelly' Elliott 
Lovy Bard 
Archibald Bard 
Robert McDowell (of 
Nathan McDowell (of 
John Bigger 
Polly McCay 
Betsy Patton 
Nancy McDowell 
Betsy Steel 
Mrs. Huston 



William Marshall 
William Moner 
William Dickey, Jr. 
Samuel Spence 
Nancy Campbell 
Margaret Alexander 
James Smith 

1786 
John Scott (of Wm.) 
Jennv Scott 
Polly Dickey 

James) 
Nathan) 
John Brownson 
Joseph Hancock 
William Bradley 
Adam Johnston 
Arthur Hunter 



1787 

Sally McNutt Jenny Taggart 

Peggy Lowry Polly Craig 

Anne Dinwiddle John \\'^elsh 

Polly Smith (of Robert) James McKinney 

Polly Sterrett William Huston 

Polly Taggart 

Robert Campbell (of Patrick) 

Isaac Bard John Dunlap 

James Smiley John McAfee 

Alexander McElhattan Margaret McAfee 

Mrs. McElhattan Robert McFarland 

Dr. William Magaw Becky Scott 

John McDowell Jean Dean 

David Hays Jenny Irwin 

Joseph Dean Jean Lowry 

1788 

John Johnston 
John McClarin 
Joseph Johnston 
William Scott 
David Campbell 
- Bigger) 
1789 
John Rigger 
William McFarland 
Daniel Duffy 

1790 

Nancy Hays 
Margery Rhea 



Isaac Spence 
James Sterritt 
Martha Bigger 
Polly Porter 
Jenny Smith 
Mary Simpson (- 



Alexander Robison 
Polly Irwin 
Becky Elliott 



Polly McKinney 
Polly Lowry 



124 



mh MnmBbnx!^ 



John McKinley 
John Hair 
Sally McDowell 
Peggy Patton 



Joseph Welsh 
Thomas Welsh 
Susanna Welsh 
Rowland Harris 

Mrs. Harris 

Peggy Boyd 
Susanna Rannels 
Ruth McClelland 
William McOelland 
Josiah McKinney 
Robert Elliott 



John McFarland 
Jean Graham 
Nancy Spence 
Mrs. Edwards 



Thomas Bard 
Patrick McDowell 
Thomas McDowell 



1791 



Jeremiah Hamilton 
Patrick Lucas 

Mrs. Lucas 

Rachel Maxwell 
Sallv Dinwiddle 
William' Sterritt 

Mrs. Shannon 

Maxwell Chambers 
Mary Walker 

Nesbitt 

Susanna Maxwell 



1792 



John Steel 

Fanny Harte 

Mrs. Patrick Campbell 

Miss Mclntire 



James McFarland (of James) 
William Wilky James McCay 

Robert McDowell (of Matthew) 
Violet Lowry Anne Vanlear 

Esther Walker 

1793 

James Campbell Sarah Campbell 
James McDowell (of Matthew) 
Jane McDowell (of Matthew) 
Scott Scott 



1794 



Patrick Hays 
Kairns Sterritt 
Betsy Talbot 

Miss McFarland 

Elliott 



Pollv Nesbitt 



Ruth Fulton 
Polly McFarland 

Betsy Nesbitt 

Mrs. Richey 

Robert Steel 



179s 



Thomas Waddell Jenny Hays 

Sally Rannells (Reynolds) 



Jean Kirkpatrick 
Matty McClelland 



Prudence McClelland 
Polly McFarland 



1797 



Betsy Maxwell 



Thomas Knox 
Francis Irwin 
Nancy Bigger (of Andrew) 

Kitty Bard Mrs. Robison 

Matty Campbell Isabella Work 

Sally Sterritt Betsy Johnston 

Betsy McCay Martha Ormsby 

John McCay, Jr. Betsy Work 



Agnes Spence 
Polly Rannels 
Matty Bard 
Mrs.'Pollv Irwin 
Pollv Patten 



John Spence 

Mrs. Spence 

Matty McCullough 
Nathan Brownson 
Betsy Brownson 



1799 

James Withrow 
Mary Withrow 
William Waddell 

Mrs. Chambers 

Mr. Sterritt 

1800 

Robert McFarland 
Anne McFarland 
Betsy Vanlear 
John Taggart 
Anne Taggart 

1 801 



Joseph McCullough Polly McKinney 

Mrs. McCullough John McCay 



Eleanor Hall 
Abner Knox 
Robert Martin 
William Waddell, Jr. 
George Stevenson 
Matty Work 



John McKinney 
John Withrow 
George Carson 



Isabella McCay 
James Walker 
Mary Anne Walker 
Thomas Nesbitt 
Joseph Beggs 



1802 



Jenny McCauly 
Nancy Maxwell 




THE UNITED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 



3T IS indeed a labor of love to write a short sketch of Mercersburg United Presbyterian 
Church. It was my first pastoral love; for eight years it was kind to my virtues and blind 
to my faults. Two of my children were born in Mecersburg. I seem to be reviewing my 
youth as I think back over those early years of my ministerial life. 

Perhaps our church was called more frequently than by any other name, the Seceder Church, 
and in some minds, unacquainted with the history, it contained a sinister reflection. It was as if a stone 
were cast. Yet its origin was in a heroic act of secession from the National Church of Scotland, in 
1733, when the rights of the people were trampled upon by titled patrons and the doctrines of grace 
were set aside by church courts under rationalistic leadership. It was a name of honor, adopted by 
the Erskines and their fellows and followers as a synon\ni for "The Associate Presbytery," the name 
they took at the outset. 

In 1742 the Associate Presbytery in Scotland received a petition from the American Colonies for 
supply of preaching, and in 1753 two ministers were sent to this country — Alexander Gellatly 
and Andrew Arnot. Thus began the Associate Church in America. 

In 1782 a union was formed between the Associate and the Reformed Presbyterian churches and 
the new organization combined the names into one and called itself "The Associate Reformed Church." 
But, as often happens, the union left a remnant of each of the uniting branches and made three denomi- 
nations instead of one. The Associate, and Associate Reformed churches came together in 1858 and 
formed the United Presbyterian Church, which a few years ago celebrated the semi-centennial of its 
existence. 

The congregation of Mercersburg was organized by the Associate Presbytery of Philadelphia. 
It grew out of a settlement in the neighborhood of members of the Associate Church, the most in- 
fluential of them being Mr. Thomas Johnston — the father of Samuel, Alexander, James and John, 
who were leading men in the succeeding generation. It is stated that they came to the region about 
the year 1794, from Lancaster county, whence they were driven out by the Indians. Probably they 
had irregular supplies of preaching during all the years reaching up to the beginning of the first 
pastorate. 

The place of worship was some distance out on the road from Mercersburg to Greencastle, and 
was known as the Slate Hill Church. It was not far from the dwelling of Mrs. Armstrong Bradley. 
There was a graveyard there forty years ago, which was encroached upon by the tillage of the field 
in which it was included, and I am told a few graves are still marked off by a rapidly decaying fence. 
I have seen a printed statement that it was built as far back as 1772, and that it was a log house. 
The date I am not able to verify. 

Sfo. ©Ijnmaa 'Btmnb^ (Elarhaon 

I 823- I 827 

The congregation was fully organized in August, 1822. and Rev. Thomas B. Clarkson became its 
first pastor October 8, 1823, and continued in this relation till December 14, 1827. Demitting his charge 
on account of ill health, he remained in the neighborhood of Mercersburg until his death, March 17, 
1836. He left a widow, two daughters and one son. The son died early and the daughters were mar- 
ried, the one to Mr. John Webster, with whom she lived out her beautiful life in the place where she 
was born, and the other to Rev. James G. Carson, a distinguished minister of the church. Two sons 
of Mr. and Mrs. Webster serve God in the ministry, and bear along the good influence of their godly 
ancestor. Mr. Clarkson was himself a son of the Manse, a son of Rev. James Clarkson, who came 
from Scotland in 1773, and was pastor of Guinston church in York county. Rev. Thomas Clarkson 
is described as "a man of fine personal appearance and of remarkably graceful and attractive man- 
ners, of much natural vivacitv."' At a later day, when I became pastor, the savor of his name lingered 
in the community. His widow lived near Mercersburg until her death, and was regarded with a feel- 
ing akin to reverence by those whose memory went back to the time of the first pastorate. 

125 



126 (§ih MntnBhnr^ 

ffirn. Jffinlaa W1|Uf iJIrJfaueifton 

1828-1857 

Mr. McNaughton was ordained and installed as "pastor of the united congregations of Mercers- 
burg and McConnell's Town," August 20, 1828. His ministry was an able and successful one. The 
report to Synod in 1841 shows that Mercersburg had 102 members and McConnellsburg 100 mem- 
bers perhaps the largest enrolment reached at any period of its histon,-. In the year 1845 the pastor 

and the congregations withdrew from the Associate Synod and joined in constituting the "Associate 
Presbytery of Philadelphia." In 1857 the congregation returned to its fomier connection. The report 
to Synod from the Presbytery of Philadelphia states that "a petition was received from the elders and 
other members of the Associate congregation of Mercersburg, formerly in connection with us, desir- 
ing to be received under our care. The petition was granted and the name of the congregation added 
to the roll." 

Mr. McNaughton afterward united with the Presbyterian Church and later he returned to the 
Great Cove to end his days. He died at Webster's Mills, April 2, 1889. 

Samfs Irurp. i. i. 

1858-1863 

The union of the Associate and Associate Refonned churches in May, 1858, in the city of Pitts- 
burgh, constituted the United Presbyterian Church. Mr. Bruce was the first United Presbyterian 
pastor, though he was installed about two weeks before the union was consummated. May 11, 1858. 
In 1862 the congregation had a membership of thirty-nine. Mr. Bruce was regarded by his people as 
an able preacher. I hxve heard them tell how once he disguised himself by removing his beard on a 
Saturday night and appearing in the pulpit on Sabbath morning with a smooth face. They thought 
him a stranger till he began to speak. He became a man of large influence in the State of New 
York, whither he went. He was Moderator of the General Assembly in 1893. 

Sfo. Eobf rt (Srarpg 3Ff rguHon 

1866-1874 

I began my ministry July i, 1866, and made my home as a young bachelor with Atchison Ritchey, 
Esq., who, with his two sisters and his daughter and son, took me in and for two years gave me a 
pleasant home, until I was ready to establish one of my own. He was a genial and generous host, 
bringing out of the stores of a great memory many things to instruct and entertain, clinging to 
friends with great tenacity, whether white or black. I was ordained and installed October 17, 1866, 
though my pastorate began July i, 1866. There I spent eight very happy years. There was no 
great growth in numbers, the congregation reporting fifty members in the year 1873. Yet its force 
in the community must not be estimated by its numbers. The people were intelligent and influential, 
as these names will tell to those who know — Ritchey, Carson, Andrews, Webster, Witherspoon, John- 
ston, Rankin, Murray, Rhoads, Parker, Imbrie, Brown, McNaughton, Caution. 

Though the flock was small, there was great variety in it. Who could tell a storv more vividly 
than Margaret Andrews ? What a theologian was Mrs. Witherspoon, though she would have scorned 
to preach ! Mrs. McNaughton might have managed a great business as easilv as she managed and 
adorned a home. Mrs. Murray was as kind to the poor and as thoughtful about the preacher and his 
family as she was sound in the faith. And what shall I say more? Time would fail me to tell of them 
all. The elders were John Ritchey, James O. Carson, John Webster ; Colonel John L. Ritchey was 
Sunday school superintendent. 

If I were to single out from them all any one, it would be Hon. J. O. Carson, usually spoken of 
as Judge Carson. He was, I think, Mercersburg's first citizen when I went to the place. As he 
trod the streets with cane in hand his very presence produced order. His patriarchal appearance, his 
eyes that pierced through the pretender, his courage and integrity made him a man of mark at home 
and abroad. One, writing to another of this laudable effort to "gather up the history of the town, 
says: "A history of the town without prominent mention of Judge Carson would be very inper- 
fect. As long as I can remember he was the most weighty, the most regarded, and most active in 
whatever was for the town's good of any one there." Yet he was, when mellowed by age and grace, a 



humble man. I like to bear in mind the words he said to me on his death bed : "I find not a pin point 
on which to rest but the righteousness of Christ. None but Christ ! None but Christ ' Tesus is mv 
all in all." ^ ^ 

It was a stimulus to serve such a people. Indeed the whole community stirred one to be and do 
his best. The atmosphere of scholarship, created by the presence of men like Harbaugh, Higbee, 
Appel, Kieffer and others, was a good one to breathe. T used to look up to them with reverence even 
when I criticised their churchliness. Of all the pastors I remember best, after the venerable, saintly 
Dr. Creigh, the jolly Whetstone, who once reported to me a serious fall in his own facetious way: 
"I thought the whetstone was broken." 

QIIjp (Etfurrli lutliinga 

The first church building was a plain, brick structure. It stood at the turn of the road leading to 
Greencastle. It was built in the year 1828, and was abandoned in October, 1872. I preached a sort 
of farewell sermon from Psalms 42, 4 : "When I remember these things I pour out my soul in me ; 
for I had gone with the multitude, I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and 
praise, with a multitude that kept holyday." 

The building of the new stone church, just across the way from the old, was a great undertaking 
for such a handful of people. But the people gave willingly and largely ; several subscriptions were 
$1,000 each and others were correspondingly great by persons of less means. Mr. Johnston Rankin, 
after he had made a very liberal subscription, lost a very valuable horse, and I naturally felt sorry 
for his loss and said so to him. But he tossed it from him in his own philosophic way by replying, "If 
I hadn't had it, I wouldn't have lost it." 

Mr. James W. Carson, of Philadelphia, was a substantial helper, if not the prime mover. His let- 
ters I still have, touching every detail from the breaking of the sod until dedication day. He never 
wearied in labors, and, like the rest of us, he was proud of it when it was completed. It has had 
rather a ve.xing history and we who put so much strength into it raise questions about it sometimes. 
Perhaps, like David concerning the temple, we will receive credit for what was in our hearts. 

l&xn. 3lmnPB lEmtttg Hark 

1878-1883 

Mr. Black was ordained and installed November 11, 1878, and after serving the congregation 
something over four years, was released from the charge February 26, 1883. He is now pastor of the 
United Presbyterian Church, Orchard. Neb. The congregation was disorganized by Big Spring 
Presbyten' in 1898; the building was sold and, later, was destroyed by fire. A few of the old mem- 
bers, still residing in Mercersburg, hold their membership in other United Presbyterian churches and 
others joined churches of kindred faith in the town. The Great Cove congregation, in the course of 
events, became the stronger one and Rev. J. L. Grove became its pastor in 1885, and for a time 
preached occasionally to the few who remained at Mercersburg. 

The dear old church has passed out of existence, but there are those who yet cherish its memory, 
and its influence is still felt wherever its members have gone out into the great world. 

"Long, long be my heart with such memories filled, 
Like the vase in which roses have once been distilled. 
You may break, you may shatter the vase if you will, 
But the scent of the roses will hang round it still." 

R. G. Ferguson 



0^^ HE history of a church more than a hundred years old is not easily written. The early rec- 
/•g I ords have been lost, and the original members have passed away. The facts pertaining to 
MIL those early davs of toil, sacrifice, and struggle are forgotten, so that a complete history of 
^^0^ this church is impossible. However, a diligent research has been made, and the facts gath- 
ered shall be put into permanent form. 
The first sentence of this history should contain the name of Rev. John Ruthraufif. This faithful 
ambassador of Christ walked in and out before the people of Mercersburg for twenty-three years, 
breaking unto them the bread of life, and setting them an example of christian manhood. It was 
under his wise leadership that this congregation was organized in the year 1804. At the time of the 
organization, Pastor Ruthraufif was residing in Greencastle. But he was loyal to the little band in 
Mercersburg, and made ample provision for their spiritual needs. 

In those early days the Lutheran and Reformed congregations united their eiTorts in erecting 
a log-building, to be used jointlv bv them as a house of worship. The lot on which this church was 
built was purchased from Mr. Joseph Grubb, and on this lot. No. 88 of the original town plat of Mer- 
cersburg, on Fayette street, a log church was erected, sometime after the year 1786, but prior to the 
year 1804. The church was small, rudely constructed and destitute of beauty; and the interior corre- 
sponded with the exterior. Rude seats were made of slabs with the sawed sides up, and legs put into 
the under side, which were left as they grew in the forest. The windows were small and the ceiling 
low ; the situation marshy and difficult of access on account of mud and water. Yet this church, 
humble and simple as it was, served its purpose for a number of years. 

The constitution of the Union Church was written by Rev. John Ruthrauff, pastor of the Lutheran 
congregation, and is signed by himself, Jacob Guyer, Peter Sharar, Daniel Eigel-Berer and Michael 
Hoke, who constituted the church council. It is not only an article of agreement, but at the same 
time a constitution, defining the rights, privileges, duties and qualifications of pastors, officers, and peo- 
ple. It is an interesting and in some respects a curious document, but too long to give entire here. 
It was translated from the German by Rev. G. D. Gurley, and the first division is as follows : 

"Preface to Church Order 

"It shall be and hereby is by the power of this Church-Order established and resolved that this 
congregation shall be a union congregation and that this church or church building is and shall be a 
common church belonging to the two Protestant Evangelical religious persuasions. Ministers or 
preachers who serve this congregation must of necessity be a member of some Evangelical Synod. 
Neither of the two religious persuasions shall have the least preference of the other in this congrega- 
tion, but like power, like right and authority shall be the ground and foundation of the present or- 
ganization. The church council must necessarily be elected by a majority of votes out of both reli- 
gions, viz : two elders, who shall at the same time be trustees of the congregation, and also two dea- 
cons, who shall remain in office two years. The elders are elected for life so long as they reside in 
the limits of the congregation, provided their life-walk is consistent with their official duty. 

"Introduction to Church Order 

"In the name of God, Amen. We, the undersigned, both church council and congregational mem- 
bers of the Mercersburg mutual union Protestant congregation in solemn manner bind and obligate 
ourselves to the following Church — Article and Order which shall lay the basis and foundation for a 
well-grounded union and fellowship and shall likewise be a rule of conduct according to which both 
the minister or ministers who from time to time teach or preach to this congregation in this church 

128 




ST. JOHN'S litiii;i:a.\ church 



are to guide themselves, as well as the church council one and all and each member individually and 
in particular is to direct himself. Also to inform the way and manner a minister must be qualified 
who is received into this congregation. Also to make clearly understood the election of the church 
council, duty of each, time of office, the life-walk each must necessarily follow if he wishes to serve 
as church counsellor in the government of the church. And finally the duty, obedience and life-walk 
of each member of this congregation which are to observe toward minister, elders, deacons, and col- 
lective church council and each member toward another and are duty bound as members of this so- 
ciety. Declaration which at the acceptation of the present Church-Order was solemnly made — done 
at Mercersburg, May lo, 1804: We, the undersigned, do hereby openly and solemnly confess and 
declare that this house of God or church is the property of the united two-fold Evangelical Protestant 
congregation in and around Mercersburg and is forever appointed to Divine objects and use that in 
the same the word of God be preached pure and fervently after the * * * Qf ^j^g Holy Scriptures, 
the teachings of Jesus Christ and His Apostles, the Holy Sacraments administered according to the 
ordinance of Christ and also have sinners be called to repentance and the repentant and believing be 
ever better informed as to their souls' welfare and we pray the Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy 
Ghost that He graciously further the establishment of this purpose and commend this house of God 
and congregation to His almighty protection and guardianship; that He graciously guard the same 
against abuse, profanation, false doctrine and offense and forever be present at the exposition of His 
word and have mercy upon dying souls. Amen." 

Both congregations continued to grow, and the log church was no longer able to hold the increas- 
ing crowds that flocked to hear the Word of God. They felt the need of a larger and better church, 
and toward the accomplishment of this purpose they directed their energies. The needs were urgent, 
and in the year 181 3 the church was moved to the lot adjoining on the south, and converted into a 
dwelling. Farewell, little church ! "Thou didst serve thy purpose well ! Thou shalt not be forgot- 
ten !" The log church was used as a dwelling for a number of years; then was a shop, and was 
finally removed, in 1876, by Christian Haulman, who wished to erect a dwelling on the lot. 

On March 29, 1813, the lot on the north was purchased from John Brownson by Michael Hoke 
and Jacob Guyer, in trust for the Lutheran and Reformed congregations. Forty dollars was the price 
paid for it. This was done in order to enlarge the graveyard, and also to have sufficient land on 
which to build a new and larger church. The new church, commenced in 1813 and built of stone, 
was a neat and substantial structure; and was remodeled in 1834. Among some of the names of mem- 
bers of whom we have heard were the Spanglers, Feagleys, Shearers, etc. Of course, there were 
others, but we have not been able to learn their names. 

The union congregation became divided previous to the year 181 1 into two distinct and separate 
organizations. Yet they still worshipped in the one building, and continued to do so until the year 
1847, when the present Reformed Church was built. The stone church was then occupied exclusively 
by the Lutherans, although the Reformed people still held their interest in the building. During this 
time there is not much information to be obtained. The pastors lived elsewhere and held services 
onlv about once a month. Among the names of early members might be mentioned, about 1850, and, 
perhaps, a few years previous, the Allemans, Weisers, Millers, Mileys, Shearers, and Kunklemans, 

The following is a list of the ministers who served this congregation from 1804 until the build- 
ing of the new church, in 1868: 

Rev. John RuthraufT, 1804-1827 Vacancy, 1849-1852 

Rev. Shultz, McConnellsburg, 1827-1830 Rev. P. P. Loose, 1852-1853 

Rev. Baughv, Clearspring, 1830-1831 Rev. M. M. Bachtel, 1853-1854 

Rev. - — • Zenet "(Presbyterian). 1831-1832 Rev. S. McHenrv, 1854-1859 

Rev. Reuben Weiser, St! Thomas, 1832-1835 Rev. G. Roth. 1859-1862 

\'acancy, 1835-1846 Vacancy, 1862-1863 

Rev. — — E}ester, Greencastle, 1846-1849 

It was during this last vacancy, while the congregation was without the service of a pastor, that 
manv of the German members of this church were scattered, and connected themselves with other de- 
nominations. In 1863, Rev. A. M. Whetstone, a young minister who had just finished his studies at 
Gettysburg, was called to the pastorate, and took up his residence in Mercersburg. From that time 
on, the people being gathered together and having regular services, the congregation began to grow 
and improve, and it" soon became "evident that a new church was a necessity. The handful of loyal 



130 



(§Ui MtxsnBbm^ 



and faithful Lutherans were encouraged. They rallied around their pastor, and concluded to under- 
take the erection of a new church. Accordingly, the lot on which the present church now stands was 
bought, and the building begun in 1867. It was finished and dedicated July 5, 1868. During Mr. 
Whetstone's pastorate here, he was in Gettysburg at the time of the battle, and while sitting on the 
porch of his boarding house, was wounded in the leg. This wound disabled him for several weeks. 
He was pastor until 1871. 

And thus the good work goes on. The congregation has steadily grown, and now is a large and 
flourishing church. We are reaping today the fruits of the labors of those who have gone before. 
And, although it has passed through trials ordinary and extraordinary, great has been God's blessing 
upon this congregation. May its past history be its inspiration for the future ! 

Rebecca North W.mdlich 





'Iilltin ol- THIC RKF-ORMED AND 
I/l TIIKHAX COXORKGATIO.NS OF 
.MUKCKUSUIJKO. PKNNSYLVA.MA 



FIRST ALTAI! AN I; COMMUNION CL'P 

Used jointly by the Reformefl and Lutheran Congregations 
of Mercersburg 




I|fet0riral g^krtrlf nf Srmttg Srfnrm^b CUtjurrlj 

0^1^ HE beginning of this congregation is hidden in the mists of the past. We know that when the 
/-g Rev. Jonathan Rahauser became pastor of the Hagerstown Reformed charge, in October, 
i I L 1792, the Rlercersburg congregation was one of the ten which constituted that charge. But 
%i^ the records do not say how long it had been in existence. The first important document that 
has come down to us is both a constitution and an article of agreement between the members 
of the Reformed and Lutheran churches. It was written in German by the first Lutheran pastor, the 
Rev. John Ruthrauflf, of Greencastle, and went into eiTect May lo, 1804. A translation of a portion 
of this paper is given in the history of the Lutheran Church. 

It is probable, however, that the union congregation had been organized some years prior to 
1804, as both these ministers had been serving the people during that period. Their labors bore rich 
fruit, for, some time between the years 1786 and 1804, this handful of people erected their first church 
on North Lafayette street. The deed shows that it was built on a tract of land conveyed by William 
Smith and Margaret, his wife, to Joseph Grubb, being a "lott" known on the general plan of the town 
as No. 88, by conveyance dated March 25, A. D. 1786, which lot was conveyed by Joseph Grubb to 
George McAllen, and thence by deed from James Irwin, administrator de bonis non of the estate of 
George McAllen, deceased, bearing date the 6th day of March. A. D. 1812, to Michael Hoke and Jacob 
Guyer in trust for the two congregations, the consideration recited in said deed being one hundred and 
one pounds and one shilling. The church was built of logs on strictly primitive lines, with low ceiling, 
small windows, and slabs of wood for seats ; but it had the first bell in the settlement, and when a 
member died, it was always tolled. Tradition tells us that this bell came from a monastery in Europe. 
The people were very proud of it, although it swung from a framework of wood — two uprights and 
a crosspiece — which was sunk in the ground some distance from the building. On the stone and 
brick churches, belfries were provided for it, and like other hardy pioneers, it lived to a good old age. 
The singing was very congregational — no choir, no organ — but a leader pitched the tunes, and all 
who could took up the strain. 

A curious, old, time-worn, leather-bound volume, written in German, preserves the following 
names: "Confirmed Sat. Dec. 22, 1804, Jacob Schort, Jacob Leimeister, Jonathan Scherer, Johanes 
Leidy, George Schafer, Johanes Schafer, Samuel Brand, Johanes Dahlman, Ppul Schafer. Joseph 
Zimemian, Isaac Dahlman, Jacob Kalm, Jacob Dahlman, Martin Reudenauer, Andreas Herkman, 
Adam Kugel, Maria Bahn, Elizabetha Bahn, Hanna Dahlman, Freny Dahlman, Hana Leidy, Susana 
Mauerer, Elizabetha Kalm, Anamaria Kugel, Catharina Wolf, Maria Schafer, Susana Reudenauer, 
Elizabetha Wolf, Margretha Scherer, Elizabetha Leimeister, Anamaria Leimeister, Anamaria Kamel, 
Susana Wolf." To these thirty-three "confirmed in the Reformed congregation" are added the names 
of fourteen who "communed on the Reformed side :" "Michael Hoch, Simeon Leidy, Johanes Wolf, 
Friederick Scherer, Peter Scherer, Paul Schafer, Johanes Dahlman, Jonas Troutman, Barbara Hisson, 
Annamaria Wolf, Dorethea Dalman, Catharina Merckel, Elizabetha Breidenthal, Barbara Leidy." .'Ks 
there are usually some prevented from attending the communion, the actual membership probably ex- 
ceeded forty-seven. 

At some time previous to the year 181 1, the Refonncd people were organized into a separate con- 
gregation, and the Lutherans pursued the same course; but they continued to worship in one building 
until the year 1847. The two congregations soon outgrew the seating capacity of the little log church, 
and when a larger one was required, and more ground was needed for the graveyard, a lot on the 
north, adjoining the church property, was purchased March 29, 1S13, at a cost of forty dollars, 
from Mr. John Brownson and his wife Sarah, by Michael Hoke an.I Jacob Guyer, in trust for the 
Reformed and Lutheran congregations. The people were full of enthusiasm and began the work at 
once. The new church was a substantial stone building with galleries and entrance on the side next 
the street. Tradition says that it and Millmont were erected the same year by rival masons, who 

131 



132 mh MtraxBbm^ 



tried to outdo each other in the excellence of their work. At all events, the masonry, done by Mark 
McAfee, was regarded as a fine piece of workmanship ; but the building was not finished until it was 
remodeled in 1834. 

Although unfinished for twenty years, the stone church witnessed great progress in the life of 
our congregation. While Rev. Mr. Rahauser had ten preaching points, and Rev. Mr. Scholl, seven, 
Rev. Mr. Dieffenbacher, who was the first pastor to reside in Mercersburg, had only four congrega- 
tions. He preached alternately in the English and German languages. It was largely through the 
instrumentality of Rev. Mr. Mayer that Marshall College (1835) and the Theological Seminary of the 
Reformed Church were established at Mercersburg. The cornerstone of the Seminary building was 
laid on August 17, 1836. Henceforth, the history of the church and schools is closely interwoven. 
The largest number of communicants during this pastorate was eighty-one. On June 23, 1839, Rev. 
John Rebaugh, pastor, one hundred and thirty-nine persons communed. After the resignation of Mr. 
Rebaugh, the congregation was without a pastor for three years, and sufifered greatly in consecjuence. 
On April 4, 1841, one hundred and one persons communed, but there were only eighty-eight members 
enrolled at the close of the vacancy. 

During the frequent vacancies the pulpit was supplied by the neighboring pastors and over- 
worked professors of the College and Seminary. Dr. Theodore Appel's book of College Recollections 
tells us that divine service was held every Sunday morning in the chapel, except when the profes- 
sors were called on to act as supplies to the Reformed congregation in town and on communion oc- 
casions. Sergeant David McDonald, who attended our Sunday school seventy years ago, says that 
the students always sat in the gallery, and Elder A. R. Schnebly, who was a student, contributes the 
fact that in his day "Pop" (Hon. John) Cessna called the roll. 

In the Sunday school and prayer meetings, also, the professors and students gave great assist- 
ance to the struggling congregation. The following extracts from the Sunday school records give 
some details of the work : 

"Mercersburg, May 23, 1831. 

"Agreeably to public notice given from the Pulpit, a meeting was held in the Church, of her 
members, whereupon it was unanimously agreed that a Sabbath School Society be formed, and a 
school established, for the religious instruction of the Children of the Congregation, and a committee 
consisting of Messrs. Welker, Hoke and Gates was appointed to draft a Constitution and report the 
same on the 26th inst. for approval." 

At the meeting held on the 26th a Constitution was adopted, and the following officers were 
elected : Rev. J. F. Dieffenbacher, president ex officio ; Mr. Jacob Hosier, vice-president ; Mr. Corne- 
lius Gates, secretary ; Mr. Michael Sellers, treasurer. 

On September 13, 1831, the Executive Committee elected Mr. Adam Hoke, superintendent, and 
Mr. George Welker, secretary of the school, with the following teachers : "Messrs. Welker, Hosier, 
Miller, Hoke, Spangler, Parker, Troxall and Myers, and Mrs. Diefifcnbacher, Mrs. Gates, Misses Wil- 
liams, Sellers, Spangler, E. Fegley, Susan Fegley, and Ann Hoke." 

The following is a list of the superintendents with their dates : 

1835— Mr. Conrad Sohn. 1839— Rev. W. A. Good and Mr. Williard. 

1837 — INIr. Colliflower and Mr. Young. 1840 — Mr. Peter Cook and Mr. Middlekauff. 

1838 — Mr. Welker and Mr. Reed. 1841 — Dr. Traill Green and Miss Moore 

From 9th Report, December 30, 1841 : "The Sabbath school, under the smiles of heaven, is 
destined to progress and advance the Redeemer's Kingdom, and it may perhaps be a subject of delight 
in our declining years to look back upon these, our youthful efforts, in the vineyard of the Lord. 
R. Good, secretary ; Traill Green, chairman." 

The nth Report says: "The number of scholars in attendance, in. * * * The subject of 
foreign missions introduced and the school was formed into a Foreign Missionary Society, and 
elected Mrs. Young, treasurer — amount collected, $15.75, to be sent to Rev. Benjamin Schneider, mis- 
sionary at Rroosa. During the summer the services of Mr. Henry Harbaugh were obtained to in- 
struct the school in the element of Sacred Music. * * * The singing in the school has been 
decidedly improved thereby * * * fhe Secretan.' has no mournful visitations of divine provi- 
dence to record. Respectfully submitted, Theodore Appel, secretary." 

From the 12th Annual Report, 1844: "The Treasurer reports paying over to Dr. Green for the 
purchase of new books, $30.65. * * * Librarian reports the accession of 121 new books. * * * 




TRI.XITV 



HKFOKMEII CHrRCll. M KKL'KIiSBUUG. 
PEXXSYLVAXIA 



At present, we have 15 male, 12 female teachers, 75 male, and 46 female scholars and a better attend- 
ance than during any previous year. At the end of the summer session the Singing School held a 
public concert in the Ger. Ref. Church. The performances on all hands were admitted to be credit- 
able alike to teacher and pupils. With the concert. Mr. Harbaugh dissolved his connection with the 
class, and Mr. Callender has been elected to supply his place. 

"In this connection we must mention the Monday evening lectures of our worthy Superintendent, 
Dr. Green. They are designed for all the schools in the town, but as they have a strong bearing on 
our school, they may not be omitted here. 

"They are drawn from Bible history, — from the lives of the patriarchs, the prophets, and Christ, — 
also, from natural philosophy,— the solar system, eclipses, etc. — the progress of virtuous and intem- 
perate persons, etc. All are made, however, to have a religious bearing. To assist him in his lec- 
tures in the way of illustration, the Doctor has furnished himself with a magic lantern, and a large 
number of elegant plates. The representations on the screen are of a superior kind, and arrest the at- 
tention of the most thoughtless boy, while it impresses on his mind some Bible truth. 

"The good order and attention pervading the house during the lecture, sufficiently vouch for the 
beneficial results of these exercises. It speaks not a little that the attention of so many young per- 
sons can be engaged during a lecture of an hour or more to such an extent. The examinations on 
the preceding lecture show that the young hearers do not forget what they may have heard. The 
meetings are opened and closed with prayer. Theodore Appel, secretary." 

In September, 1848, Dr. Traill Green, being about to remove to Easton, handed in his resigna- 
tion as superintendent, having served seven years. Great sorrow was felt over his departure. Prof. 
William Nevin succeeded him. 

In 1853 Mr. E. E. Higbee, a theological student, became superintendent. Among the scholars 
at this time were Annie Hassler, Maria Metcalf, Sarah Cromer, Ellen Hart, Sarah Hause. Sarah F. 
Ladebaugh, Mary Mowen, Martin Murphy, Rachel Wolfe, Martha Nevin, Matilda Brewer, Hannah 
Hoke. Catherine Murphy, Blanche Nevin, John Hoffeditz, Otho Wills, Gilbert Rupley, Anselm Schaflf. 
The next two record books have disappeared, but we know that between 1853 and 1870 the 
Theological Seminary furnished the school with Superintendents Albright, S. S. Miller, Wiant, San- 
gree, and others. Elder D. M. B. Shannon served in that capacity for many years. At one time 
the classes had names and mottoes, such as "Soldiers of the Cross,'' "Francke Class," "Roses of 
Sharon" (the red cheeks of the young ladies possibly suggesting the title), and "Buds of Promise." 
The motto of the buds (little girls) was: "And the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose." 
To the activity of the Sunday school is no doubt partly due the fact that the Rev. Charles Mc- 
Cauley was able to confirm a class of thirty-five catechumens on April 18, 1843, ^^^^^ the congrega- 
tion had been without a pastor for three years. 

The Stone church had varied experiences; one of which, in the year 1842, called forth Dr. Nevin's 
pamphlet on "The Anxious Bench." Another we learn from the following article published in the 
Mercersburg Visitor (a weeklv paper) of -August 30. 1844. 

"The 28th of August came, and with it cool, refreshing breezes and a cloudless sky. Early in the 
morning, carriage after carriage, sulkey after sulkey, gig after gig were heard rattling into town from 
all directions, and persons on horseback, and persons on foot, were seen moving toward the scene of 
action. At 11 o'clock the Band struck up a lively air and, followed by the procession of students, 
members of the Goethean Literary Society (distinguished by their banner upon which appeared the 
portrait of Goethe) and members 'of the Diagnothian Literary Society, headed by David Paul Brown 
Esq., of Philadelphia, and the officers of the College and Seminary, left the Seminary buildmg and 
directed its course to the College ground. Immediately on its arrival at the foundation of the Goe- 
thean Hall, the corner-stone being arranged, J. W. Nev'in. D. D., proceeded with the ceremony usual 
on such occasions, after which, Mr. Brown was escorted by the committee, in company with the Pro- 
fessors, to the stage which had been erected in the College grove. The Rev. Dr. Philip Schaflf, of 
Berlin, was then introduced to the assembly, and entertained the German portion of the audience with 
a poem on Goethe. Mr. Brown followed with a most learned and instructive address, which was de- 
livered in a masterly manner, and did not fail to rivet the attention of every one upon the speaker. 
Long should the voung men of Marshall College remember the wholesome advice given. By the por- 
traiture of graphic pictures, connected with sound reasoning, he showed conclusively, that assiduous 
perseverance is everything, and that it rests with the youth to say whether he shall mount to the top- 



134 mh MmtvBbnvQ 

most round of fame's ladder, or sink into quagmire of contumely and contempt. He showed, too, 
that the foundation, that the corner-stone of enduring fame, of true nobility, is, and can be no other 
than God's Holy Word. After the address had been pronounced, the assembly was dismissed to con- 
gregate in the German Reformed Church at 4 o'clock in the afternoon — at which time a neat and ap- 
propriate address was delivered by Professor Wm. M. Nevin, on the subject of National Taste; it 
was indeed a neat and appropriate address, it reminded us of the old "Spectatior," that specimen of 
polite literature. In the evening, at the same place, Mr. Brown delighted the people with a treatise 
on the subject of Ruling Passions, which was continually applauded. Throughout, the 28th was a 
great day for Mercersburg, but we doubt not, to be equalled on the 25th of next month, when the 
Rev. Dr. Green, of Allegheny, is to address the Literary Societies, at the invitation of the Diagnothian 
Literary Society." 

But the stone church was too small for the commencements and anniversary occasions, hence the 
movement for a larger church originated in the College and Seminary. The minutes of the Board of 
Trustees of Marshall College show that at a meeting held on April 10, 1844, that body voted $1,000 
worth of brick toward the erection of a new church, provided that the congregation raised $3,000 
more. 

On October 6, 1844, at a congregational meeting, it was decided to build the church, Dr. Schafif 
heading the subscription with $100. The building committee announced on January 18, 1845, '^hat 
the sum of $4,395 had been collected, and it was continued with instructions to raise the amount as 
speedily as possible to $5,000. Since the College had purchased a lot of brick for a College build- 
ing that was never erected, the material was close at hand, and the corner-stone of Trinity church was 
laid in June, 1845, with Rev. Charles McCauley, pastor. It was not dedicated until May 30, 1847, 
when Rev. John Rebaugh conducted the services and Rev. J. W. Nevin, D. D., preached the sermon, 
the pastor being Rev. William Phillips. The Mercersburg Visitor tells us that Mr. Elias Unger made 
the plan of the church, and that "Messrs. Gold and ]\Ietcalf are to do the carpenter and Mr. Wilson 
the mason work." 

The cut shows the exterior of the building, and the interior was in hamiony, with its high pulpit ; 
galleries, supported by columns, on three sides ; and massive chancel rail. The pews were cut after 
the uncomfortable pattern of those good old days ; all woodwork was painted white, and the pulpit 
lamps and those of the side were of solid brass. The Lutheran and Reformed churches had not only 
the first bell, but Trinity was progressive enough to install the first "instrument'' in her gallery. So 
startling an innovation greatly shocked the strait-laced of the community, and the innocent-looking 
melodeon was nicknamed the "German Reformed Guyascutus." 

In response to a letter of inquiry from Pastor Knappenberger, Mrs. J. W. Nevin wrote that as 
money was scarce and furniture badly needed, the two Chippendale chairs were presented by the Theo- 
logical Seminary from a half dozen which a lady had given the institution while in York. 

The committee (consisting of J. Hossler, J. W. Nevin, H. Weber) "to furnish church with stoves, 
lamps, instrument, etc.," raised $207.07 between 1847-1851. In February, 1851, the ladies resolved to 
secure enough for carpet, window blinds, fence and other improvements. Amount reported, $313.24 
from one hundred and thirty-nine subscriptions, besides $3.26, balance of men's fund and $2.29 "from 
Treasury of Church, Penny Collec. which ought to be replaced." 

A few of the hundred and and thirt)'-nine subscribers were: "Peter Cook, Cath. Cook, Har. 
Hause & wife, Mrs. J. W. Nevin, John Murphy, Wm. Murphy, Jonathan Zellers, Jon. Good, John Barn- 
thisel, George Cook & Lady, Widow Hossler, Peter Shaeiifer & wife, G. Rupley, Joseph Reninger & 
wife, J. N. Brewer, Sam. Palsgrove, Marv Mowry, Dr. Schaf¥, Profs. Porter & Nevin, Ab. KiefTer, 
David Smith, M. A. Cushwa, B. Bausman, Peter Davis, McClure & Netcher, Maria Kirkwood." 

Here are some of the items for which this money was expended : 

"122 yards carpeting $68.93 

"8 yards stair carpeting 3.20 

"i dozen stair rods 1.60 

"5 blinds and Gothics 60.00 

"5 baskets for use of the church 1.47 

"Tablecloth for melodeon 1.25 

"2 yards silk velvet 5.00 




CHIPPEXDALE CHAIRS. I X POSSESSION OF TRIXITV HEl'OKMED CHUKCH, 
MERCERSBURG, PENNSYLVAXIA 



mh ilpmrsburg '35 



"2 tassels for pulpit 1.75 

"2 bus. stone coal .62J/2 

"i553>^ lbs. iron 46.60 

"224 lbs. scroll iron 8.96 

"13% lbs. round iron -75^ 

"Martin Ritter for making iron fence 65.00" 



■2 



■2 



This beautiful fence was wrought entirely by hand. 

The new church witnessed a gradual growth in membership, though somewhat resembling the ebb 
and flow of the tide. In December, 1835, eighty-one persons communed. In 1845, Rev. Mr. Mc- 
Cauley reported one hundred and sixty members, an increase of ninety-two in two years. When Rev. 
Mr. Appel became pastor, there had been another vacancy, and a decrease of thirty-nine. Rev. Mr. 
Brown presented twenty-seven annual classical reports, the membership varying from one hundred 
and thirty-five (two congregations, college removed) to three hundred and ninety-three (three con- 
gregations) ; unconfirmed, from one hundred and thirty to three hundred and thirty-three. In 1845 
Mercersburg and Loudon constituted the charge; 1851, Mercersburg alone; 1853, Mercersburg 
and the Little Cove; same in 1857, and in 1870 Upton was added; but the membership at Upton and 
the Little Cove was very small. A further gliinpse into the church's finances is given us by this ex- 
tract from the report of Peter Cook, treasurer. 

"Penny Collections : 

"1851— Septem $ 2.85 

Oct 3.87 

Nov 6.27 

Dec 3.99 

Communion Collection, Dec. 6 12.25" 

"For Benevolent Objects, Jan. ist, 1851 — April nth, 1852: 

"Domestic Missions 

"Collected at Dr. Schaff's Sabbath evening lectures $7.68 

Collected Sabbath evening services and communion 12.00 

Collected by Mr. Rust for Cincinnati Church 74.00 93.68 

Foreign Missions i5-°o 

Beneficiary Education 63.68 

Theological Seminary 36.00 

$208.36 

Paid Rev. Appel, Salary, Jan., 1851, to Jan., 1852 300.00 

Sexton, Fred Smith, about 30.00^^ 

Guyn. for services as chorister 37-25 

Along these lines, too, progress was made, for in 1868 the congregation bought of Dr. John Mc- 
Dowell, for $3,(^00, his substantial stone dwelling house, on South Main street, formerly the home of 
Dr. William "Magaw, for a parsonage. Mr. Peter Cook had willed his residence for that purpose, 
but the legacy did not go into effect until the death of his wife, many years later. Another of his be- 
quests was the sum of $250 for missionary work. 

The church was frescoed in 1862, and the melodeon replaced by a reed organ prior to that time. 
A solid brass chandelier was the gift of Dr. John McDowell, and through the efforts of Miss Troupe, 
the font was presented bv the Infant Sundav School which she had organized. 

At the time Trinitv was dedicated, the Lutherans were not ready to buy out the Reformed inter- 
est in the Union Church, so it was held jointly until the Lutherans built, in 1868, when thev sold out 
to the Reformed, who disposed of it to the United Brethren, March 14, 1868, for the munificent sum 



136 (§iii MtrtnBbnvQ 

of $420, with reservations, viz : "the bell, the settee, the stoves and pipe, the chairs, the lamps and the 
Sacramental Stand." 

But the glory of a church is not in the visible things that she possesses, but in the love of her peo- 
ple. Log, stone and brick buildings sprung from the same spirit of devotion and self-sacrifice. Work 
was hard, and progress slow, but great results were achieved because the people worked in harmony. 
Even when the liturgical question raised cyclones elsewhere, it was quiet here; excepting on com- 
mencement days and similar occasions. 

And then Trinity was the center of life and movement ! What crowds the new church held ! Peo- 
ple flocked from far and near, filling the remotest corners of her galleries. When the procession, formed 
at the Society Halls and led by Heyser's Band, of Hagerstown, arrived at the church, great was the 
enthusiasm. The College Glee Clubs assisted with the music. A lady who attended the commence- 
ment of 1849, records that "Mrs. Schaff and her sister, Miss Schley, sang in the gallery." In Mer- 
cersburg College days the procession formed at the Seminary Building, and Weber's orchestra, of 
Harrisburg, furnished the music. The last commencements of Marshall College, the Theological 
Seminary and Mercersburg College were held in this church. 

But if walls could speak, these walls would tell not only of marriage bells and commencement re- 
joicings, but of dark days when the bell tolled and the organ's voice was low and tuned to a minor 
key. Before this altar many a soldier of the Cross has slept the "sleep that knows no waking," but 
into eternal day, " 'I am the Resurrection and the Life,' saith the Lord," how solemnly Dr. Nevin's 
deep voice rolled through the church as he entered the door leading a long line of sorrowing ministers 
when the beloved Dr. Harbaugh was laid to rest in our churchyard. Where is there another church, 
whose pastors have been able to call to their aid so many great preachers and distinguished theolo- 
gians ? True, Marshall College had its own Sunday services, and Mercersburg College had a separate 
congregation, but Trinity Church records are enriched by the names of Ranch, Schaff, Nevin, Appel, 
Higbee, Harbaugh, Gerhart, Kerschner, and many of the students. During at least a part of the time, the 
theological students worshipped with us, conducted the Sunday school, and attended even the Ladies' 
Mite Society, so that one of their number was inspired to write this farewell — 

"No more the Mite Society 
Your well-appareled forms shall see ; 
Nor you be there as each man takes 
One of the pieces when it breaks." 

But the theologians shone most brilliantly in the choir, which occupied the rear gallery. Old resi- 
dents say that the Reformed Church's fine choir was due to their presence, but others maintain that 
its best days came after they were gone, when Elder Herman Hause was musical director and Miss 
Lalla Troupe played the organ. Had Dr. Schaflf returned to Mercersburg during the seventies, his 
churchly soul would no longer have been pained by the neglect of the great church festivals. Three 
weeks before Christmas, pine-tying began, and the lecture room was crowded with willing workers. 
How lovely the texts in old English lettering looked against the white galleries ! And what marvel- 
lous effects Messrs. Lange Harbaugh, Wilberforce Deatrick, John Schick and others obtained with 
Gothic arches in front of the chancel, the rail and columns wreathed or in solid green, and garlands 
starting from the chandelier and swinging in mid air from the four comers of the church ! At the 
children's service on Christmas Eve a stately tree always reached the ceiling. No child who sang when 
"Miss Lalla" taught the carols thinks there are any others half so beautiful. 

But when the spring time came and the Moss Hills were carpeted with violets, and Miss Lalla 
taught her children the Easter carols. Trinity Church called all her children to the greatest services of 
the year. A member might have neglected the other communions, but the Easter communion crowded 
the church with her own people. Around the altar the lilies and other flowers lifted their voices in 
praise, and from the gallery arose the triumphant strain, "The Lord is Risen Indeed ! Hallelujah !" of 
Mr. Hause's bass solo, followed by the question, "And did He rise, and did He rise?" with the answer, 
"He rose ! He rose ! He burst the bars of death and triumphed o'er the grave." The impressive serv- 
ice usually began with that anthem and ended with the Te Deum. The Chapel choir, drilled by Prof. 
Jacob Kerschner, in the German chorals, and the whole congregation united with ours for the evening 



service, and Dr. Higbee, that master of oratory, preached wonderful Easter sermons. We always 
sang, "The Lord of Life is Risen," and nobody suggested a change of tune. "Frenet euch ihr lieben 
Christen" was inseparably connected with the words. It was customary to read the hymns, and when 
Dr. Higbee read 

"Around Thy tomb, O Jesus, 

How sweet the Easter breath; 

Hear we not in the breezes 

'Where is Thy sting, O Death ?' " 

to his listeners the mysteries of life and death were solved. The great question of the ages was an- 
swered ; and they left the holy place thrilled with the vision, not of a sealed grave, but of an open tomb. 
Immortality ! How comforting to know that "a fixed conviction of personal immortality is instinc- 
tive" with men of all ages and of every race and clime ! But how poor and paltry are the blind grop- 
ings of instinct compared with the sublime teaching of The Word : "I am the Resurrection and the 
Life," saith the Lord, "he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live; and whoso- 
ever liveth and believeth in Me shall never die." May old Trinity long proclaim the joyful tidings, 
"The Lord of Life is Risen !" and the voice of countless multitudes respond, "The Lord is Risen 
Indeed !" 

The above sketch was compiled from incomplete church records, histories of Pastors Knappen- 
berger and Yearick, and recollections of native-born citizens of the town by one of Mrs. Netcher's 
"Buds of Promise." K. Antoinette Shannon 

^aalnra of (Uruiitg Srfnnnf & ffiljurrlj 

Rev. Jonathan Rahauser, 1792-1817. Rev. John Rebaugh, 1837-1840. 

Rev. Frederick A. Scholl, 1818-1830. Rev. Charles F. McCauley, D. D., 1843-1845. 

Rev. Jacob F. Dieffenbacher, 1830-1832. Rev. William Phillips, 1846-1850. 

Rev. Hamilton Van Dyke, 1832-1833. Rev. Theodore Appel, D. D., 1851-1853. 

Rev. Jacob Mayer, 1833-1836. Rev. Henry Wagner, 1853-1856. 

Rev. Joseph F. Berg, D. D., 1837. Rev. Isaac G. Brown, 1857-1883. 




0^^^ HE exact date of organization is not known, but the early records which have been preserved 
/■^ show that a "Society" of the Methodist Episcopal Church was formed at Mercersburg prior 
MIL to the year 1822; possibly less than fifty years after the introduction of Methodism in America. 
^^^ Mercersburg then belonged to what was first known as the Hancock Circuit, and afterwards 
as the Clearspring Circuit. The circuit was long and hard, and the services of two "Travel- 
ling Preachers" were required to fill the work. 

In the minutes of the "Quarterly Meeting," held June 17, 1826, the names of the two preachers 
are given as S. Clarke and N. B. Mills. These quarterly meetings were held at different points on 
the charge, as were the camp meetings of the early church. In these minutes the names of William 
Vandyke, John Hart, John King and others are frequently mentioned as "leaders," "stewards," "ex- 
horters," etc., and as having been present at these meetings. 

At a quarterly meeting held at Mercersburg June 16, 1832, the Conference of the Clearspring 
Circuit resolved to form itself into a Bible and Sabbath School Society, to be made auxiliary to the 
Bible and Sabbath School Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and that each member of the 
conference become a manager. At the same meeting it was decided that the managers proceed to 
make arrangements to form Sabbath schools wherever it was practicable. Early the next year (1833) 
it was reported that the "Sabbath School on the circuit at Mercersburg is in a prosperous condition." 
In the summer of 1834 a committee was appointed to "draft a recommendation to the Mercersburg 
trustees in relation to their Church." The church in which the congregation now worship was be- 
gun the same year, the corner stone so indicating. 

The first preaching service, however, was held in the basement of the new Meeting House some- 
time during the year 1836. 

The church which had been used previous to this time was a small and rude building, situated on 
what is now known as Park street. It was destroyed by fire. 

After a few years the basement of the new church was used as a school, and persons still living 
in the town relate how they received the rudiments of their education in this place. Amusing inci- 
dents about having "barred the teacher out," etc., have been told. About the year 1840 the name of 
the charge was again changed — from Clearspring Circuit to that of Mercersburg Circuit. 

About the time the church was being built, and for some years afterward, the name of "Brother" 
Hughie McConnell is often mentioned as having served on the Board of Stewards and Committees. 
He was, what some one has called, an old-time Methodist, and was a very active and prominent mem- 
ber of the church. For a number of years a property belonging to him was rented by the congrega- 
tion and used as the parsonage. 

When the dark days of the Civil War came, the basement of the church was converted into a 
hospital, and many wounded Confederate soldiers were cared for in this temporary place of refuge. 
The following record was made by the Rev. J. W. Buckley, who was appointed pastor of the charge 
by the Annual Conference in March, 1863. "On Sabbath, July 5, 1863, about seven hundred rebel 
persons, two hundred of whom were wounded at Gettysburg, were brought in and occupied the Theo- 
logical Seminary, and the basement of our church as hospitals. During this throng and excitement the 
meeting was suspended, and the attention of the people was occupied in caring for the wounded." On 
one occasion, when a number of rebel soldiers were being cared for here, one man, who was mortally 
wounded, was carried to the home of Mr. Leonard Leidy, a member of the church, and was baptized 
and received into the church before he died. The house in which Mr. Leidy lived at the time was 
afterward occupied by the widow and children of Dr. Henry Harbaugh, and is now the residence 
of Mr. Harry Smith. It is interesting to note that, at the present time, the son and grandson of Mr. 
Leidy are both successful ministers in the Central Pennsylvania Conference, of which Mercersburg 
charge forms a part. 

138 




THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH 
1834 



mh MnmBbm^ 



139 



Several older members of the church, among whom were C. Smith Geyer and John Hoch, Senior, 
used to tell how, during John Brown's raid, a number of the men were encamped in the basement of 
the church over night, with their picks and shovels, on their way to Harper's Ferry. 

Some time in the early sixties, records were kept of the Classes in the church, with names of the 
leaders and members under their care. The name of John Hart is given as leader of Class No. I, 
and among the members the following names are written ; William Adams, Martha C. Adams, Mabel 
Adams, John Hoch, Charlotte Hoch, William Vandyke, Nancy Vandyke, Catherine Shrader, Tillie 
Skinner, Samuel Curley, Jane Curley, Cornelius Lauderbaugh, Levina Graul, Sarah McCracken, and 
Mary A. McCracken. 

Later, in 1872, under the same leadership are mentioned : Leonard Leidy, Mary S. Leidy, John 
F. Geyer, Eliza McFarland, William E. Hoch and others. 

Soon after the above date, Mercersburg was made a "station" by the Annual Conference, and 
so remained for ten years or longer. Then several appointments were added, and it again became 
Mercersburg Circuit. 

In the spring of 1870, a young man, G. W. Izer, came to Mercersburg to serve his first pastor- 
ate. Some years later, 1881, another young man, B. H. Mosser. was sent here to begin his ministry. 
These men have never been forgotten by those who knew and loved them, and both have attained 
prominence in their respective Conferences. Mr. Izer is now a member of the Philadelphia Confer- 
ence, and is pastor of one of the large Methodist churches in the city of Philadelphia. Mr. Mosser is 
serving his third year as District Superintendent of the Juniata District in the Central Pennsylvania 
Conference. Owing to the "itinerant" system used by the Methodists, there have been frequent 
changes of pastors, and it would be impossible to tell about them all in this sketch ; but many are 
widely known and have risen to popularity in the church at large. This congregation has increased 
and prospered materially, and, instead of renting the house in which the preacher lives, the parsonage 
is now owned and furnished by the congregation. Following is a partial list of early pastors of the 
church, covering a period of fifty years, with the date of appointment: 



Samuel Clarke and N. B. Mills. 1826. 

Robert Minshall, 1827. 

William Butler, 1829. 

W. B. Edwards, 1835. 

J. D. Lipscomb and F. M. Mills, 1839. 

W. Goheen. 1840. 

Peter McEnally, 1841. 

J. M. Green and Henry Tarring, 1844. 

Josiah Forrest, 1846. 

Daniel Hartman, 1853. 

H. Holland, 1854. 

R. W. Mills, 1856. 

N. Schlosser, 1857. 

May the next half century show still greater progress! 



William Earnshaw, 1858. 

James Curns and B. F. Stevens, 1861. 

J. W. Buckley. 1863. 

J. Benson Akers, 1865. 

W. H. Ferguson, 1867. 

J. H. S. Clarke, 1869. 

G. W. Izer, 1870. 

J. H. Feight, 1871. 

W. W. Reese, 1872. 

W. V. Ganoe, 1873. 

Furman Adams, 1874. 

T. M. Griffith, 1876. 



Sarah Maud Long 



® 



ili^rr^rBburg f ark 

®ljf ^ams of ®rf P0, Mobs, SHamtrs. StriiB anb i^mantP 

H ! There's not in this wide world a Valley so sweet" might well have been written of the 
charming Cumberland Valley, and some people think that little Mercersburg, in a glori- 
ous setting of mountains, is the jewel of her crown. But the loveliest spot around old 
Mercersburg was undoubtedly, the beautiful Moss Hills. Man has wrought great changes in 
the town, but only God could make a pleasure ground so enchanting. Let us go back in mem- 
ory to the spring time of the year 1880, and take a walk to the Grove east of the town, a short distance 
beyond Seminary Hill. We pass the school, follow the road, or cross some fields, let down three bars, 
and — what a vista stretches before us ! Hill after hill carpeted in the richest, greenest, freshest moss — 
so deep, so thick — it is not surprising that the coy arbutus loves to play hide and seek in its downy 
softness. Don't you love to hunt the fragrant pink and white blossoms, and the graceful, trailing 
foliage ? 

But look at the side of that hill, all covered with velvety purple violets; and, near by, masses of 
pure white blood root, the human flower, whose heart bleeds from the prick of an unkind hand. See 
how the wind waves the graceful anemone, and here we find the modest hepatica, and the yellow dog- 
tooth violets with mottled leaves, which must be the plebeians of the family, or the name is a mis- 
nomer. Oh ! but these tiny purple and pale yellow ones, how exquisite ! Their faces bear their 
visiting cards; so no one can mistake their origin. Spring beauties, saxifrage, Dutchman's breeches, 
the graceful vetch, and countless other wild flowers abound everywhere; but we must come in May, 
instead of April, to see the dogwood trees form a white canopy over our heads, and the columbine 
and May apples blossom at our feet. Here the Seminary woods skirt the McFarland meadow, the 
home of butter cups — all gold and green — could any color combination be lovelier? But we are go- 
ing home past the creek, and when j'ou see its banks lined with bluets or innocence, the prim little 
Quaker lady — blue as the sky, fair as a dream — you shall decide. 

Mprrfr0burg ICgrrum 

This association was organized January 3, 1854, with a membership of A. F. Gilbert, J. C. 
Brewer, M. Cromer, W. W. Sellers, John D. Schriver, W. D. Parker, John D. Crilly, Wil- 
liam H. Brewer, John S. McCune, S. M. Ritzell, D. M. B. Shannon, John Grove, J. N. Brewer, 
William Metcalf, Sr., B. F. Winger, P. W. Minnich, D. Hartman, John Shirts, Leonard Leidv, 
W. D. McKinstrv, John Shafifer^ William H. Wilkins, James T. Creigh, John A. Hvssong, S. 
B. Edminston, J. L. Small, William Metcalf, Jr., A. E. McKinstry, J. J. Good, W. H. Shafer, A. Im- 
brie, John W. Abbott, H. N. Eberly, William Leber, George C. Brant, B. R. Little, Samuel Horn- 
baker, R. S. Brownson, W. Dorrance, G. W. Brewer, D. McDonald, Thomas Johnston, Thomas Met- 
calf, C. Louderbaugh, D. L. Coyle, J. H. S. Smith. S. Cromer, W. W. Keefer, John Wilson, R. P. Mc- 
Farland, S. A. Bradley, E. B. Hamil, J. B. Creigh, Robert Findlav, H. S. Eichellberger, L. K. Key- 
ser, John Webster, C. B. Huston, Hugh McConnell, George G. Ruplev, John Sharar, William Mc- 
Kinstry, P. A. Rice, Eliab Negley, G. H. McConnell, J. F. Geyer, G. W." Wolfe, James L. Hart, J. 
S. King, James C. King, J. J. Bradley, John Johnston, John L. Carson, D. Carson, A. J. North, 
James O. Carson, Samuel P. Byers, Robert Parker, J. W. Patterson, James Bradlev, Matthew Smith, 
John Johnston, Robert Shafer, J. S. Clark. 

"The objects of this association" as given in the constitution "shall be the mental and moral im- 
provement of its members and the cultivation of its literary taste in the community by means of pub- 
lic orations, lectures, essays, debates, etc." 

140 



This Society met every Tuesday evening at "Early Candle-light" and for a period of two years 
exercised an influence in the community. It opened a library, and subscribed for the following peri- 
odicals : Blackwood's Magazine ; Edinburg Review ; Hunt's Merchant Magazine ; Putnam's Maga- 
zine, and Knickerbocker. It also took under its special care the celebrations of the Fourth of July 
and Washington's birthday. 

The minutes record that "the secretary read a letter from Hon. James Buchanan, United States 
Minister at London, expressing his gratitude for the honor conferred in electing him an honorary 
member of the Mercersburg Lyceum." Other honorary members were Thaddeus Stevens, Rev. J. W. 
Nevin, Rev. J. R. Kooken, Rev. Thomas Creigh, Rev. Daniel Hartman, Rev. H. Wagner, Sr. P. T. 
Barnum's name was proposed but rejected. Dr. Schaff gave a series of lectures for the benefit of the 
Lyceum fund. The admission for the series of five was one dollar for a non-member and lady; for a 
member and lady there was a reduction of twenty-five cents. 

The questions brought up for debate were many and varied. "Should slavery be abolished in the 
United States?" was decided in the negative, both on the merits of the argument and of the question. 
"Would a railroad through Mercersburg be interest-paying stock?" also met with a negative decision. 
Likewise, the following: "Should women be granted the same civil and political rights that men 
possess?" On the occasion of this debate the ladies of the town were invited to be present and a com- 
mittee was appointed to make arrangements for their accommodation. "No vote by the ladies" is re- 
corded on the minutes. The association favored the affirmative in the next, "Is it more conducive to 
man's physical perfections to shave off the beard or to let it grow?" while it fails to record any deci- 
sion in "Would it be right to place legal restrictions on fashion?" Among other questions it was 
decided : "That the sale of our public works to an incorporated company would be beneficial to the 
people of Pennsylvania"; "That theatrical performances should not be encouraged"; "That social danc- 
ing is immoral (on this occasion the ladies were again invited to be present, also the brass band)"; 
"That wealth does not exert a greater influence than knowledge;" "That Napoleon was not justified in 
procuring a divorce from Josephine" ; "That it is not wrong to supply natural corporal defects by arti- 
ficial means." 

The last recorded meeting of this association was in 1856, when "William Sellers was selected 
to lecture at such time as will suit his convenience," and "James Creigh, Esq., favored the associa- 
tion with a lecture, Subject, What is Americanism?" A vote of thanks was returned to "Mr. 
Creigh for his able and eloquent lecture. Adjourned. J. O. Carson, Pres., Jno. D. Crilly, Secty." 




11 



®I}]f OIIfampt0n Qlrainlmg ifff at of % Wavlh 



(i 



VER a half century ago, on a beautiful July morning, just as the sun appeared above the 
horizon, a modern Hercules stepped forth, in the person of Michael Cromer, to perform a 
feat of prowess and strength never equaled before nor since. This 12th day of July, 1858, 
was destined to go down in the history of Mercersburg as an eventful one, for on that day 
Mr. Cromer accomplished the Herculean task of cutting twelve and one-half acres of wheat, 
from sun-up, until within a few minutes of sun-down, at which time every blade of wheat was severed 
from its root by the mighty swing of that cradle, and to him was acceded the honor of having accom- 
plished an unparalleled record, a feat of which the performance did not seem so much the victory over 
a super-human elTort, as one of natural-born pluck and strength, to which various other big day's work 
in the harvest field testifies. This day's work was accomplished with a grain cradle, an implement 
which is now almost entirely out of date. 

The field in which the work was done belonged to Mr. Adam Hoke. It lay east of Mercers- 
burg, and in the rear of Mercersburg College. 

Friends being ambitious that fair play should be rendered "Mike," whom they greatly admired, 
had the field surveyed by a regular surveyor for the benefit of all doubters, and appointed judges, 
who, at the expiration of the day's work, together with Mr. Cromer, went to A. P. Rice's magister- 
ial and editorial office, where a full record, with all the minutiae, was written out and affirmed by all 
concerned. 

In his early manhood he bore the reputation of being a man of might and strength, with a 
special aptness and power in "swinging the cradle." Never did he seem happier, nor was his magnif- 
icent physique brought better into play, than when, with his long sinewy arms and tremendous 
stride, he was permitted to sweep through the golden grain and level all before him. The accurate 
and rhythmic swing of the cradle, with a deft and graceful touch he alone seemed to possess, pro- 
duced a "swath that varied but little," and as said by an eye-witness still living, it was a scene never 
to be forgotten. The spectators, two hundred strong, were filled with admiration at the picture he 
presented, bare-headed and thinly clad, circling, and cutting against the grain, the swaying body in 
unison with the swing of the cradle. 

This particular day's work was brought about by Mr. Cromer having on more than one occasion, 
cut over ten acres of the sturdy grain in a day, a feat Mr. Atkinson, our present townsman, will testify 
to, as on one occasion he followed the cradle and bound every sheaf with a double band ; which was 
hardly less remarkable than Mr. Cromer's feat, and at the time excited much comment and wonder. 
During the ten hours, he bound nearly five sheaves each minute, this record being testified to at the 
time, by the following, printed in the Mercersburg Journal. 

"We, the undersigned citizens of the Borough of Mercersburg, do certify that we were present 
during a portion of the time occupied in cutting over the ground referred to above by Mr. Cromer 
(and some of us during the whole time) and that the facts set forth in the above statement are true 
according to the best of our knowledge and belief. Signed. 

"R. S. Brownson, 
"P. A. Rice, 
"Addison Imbrie, 
"S. A. Bradley, 
"Solomon Weiser, 
"Henry Lightner." 

We would here refer to an article published in the Indianapolis American Tribune, written by J. 
Fraise Richard, of Washington, D. C, a personal friend of our Champion. 

"In the year 1886 I was employed to write for a Chicago publishing house a history of that por- 

142 



tion of the Cumberland Valley that lies in Pennsylvania and Maryland, between the Susquehanna and 
the Potomac rivers. 

"My labors brought me in contact with the agricultural interests of that most productive region. 
Some facts gleaned I shall take the liberty of presenting. 

"At the time referred to I became personally acquainted with Michael Cromer, a conductor on 
a branch of the Cumberland Valley railroad ; genial, accommodating with men, women and children, 
who told me the story I am about to relate. 

"It was reported in the harvest of 1857 that an expert cradler in the village of Mercersburg, 
Pa., had cut in one day ten acres of wheat. The feat being noised about, some newspapers ridiculed 
the idea as being absurdly preposterous. 

"In the meantime the report reached the Millard Scythe Company, of Claysville, New York. 
The proprietors wrote the cradler to ascertain whether, if they should make and present him a suit- 
able cradle, he would undertake with it to beat his former record. Of course with his splendid rec- 
ord to sustain, and his splendid pluck to carry him through, he accepted the challenge, but asked the 
privilege of having the woodwork built to suit himself, which request the company acceded. In due 
time the cradle came, a marvel of strength and beauty. The blade was five inches in width, by sixty- 
five in lengfth, and made of silver steel. 

"The memorable day of trial finally came. Judges were appointed, and the champion, in the 
prime of life, just thirty years old, six feet three inches in height, and weighing 230 pounds, was au- 
thorized to begin his task. From far and near the people assembled, some to gratify idle curiosity, 
some to witness, as they predicted, a gigantic failure; and others to see this modern Hercules actually 
accomplish his thirteenth labor, the wonder of the agricultural world. 

"The cradler had employed his physician and friend. Dr. John S. King, to traverse the field with 
him, and to give such medical assistance as circumstances seemed to require. 

"By the physician's advice he worked bare-headed, cutting the grain regularly by moving around 
the field, thus losing no time. He was clad in linen shirt and pantaloons and ordinary slippers. 

"He took no solid food during the day, but every two hours drank beef broth. Sometime within 
the afternoon, a friend suggested that a piece of raw beef taken between the teeth would prove bene- 
ficial. A messenger was accordingly dispatched to the village to procure a piece, which was held be- 
tween the teeth and the juice absorbed. At the close of the day's work only the fibers remained. 

"Under the conditions agreed upon, the giant was to labor from sunrise to sunset. Once every 
two hours, when taking his broth, he stopped to whet his scythe. Without halting, even at the noon 
hour, he forged ahead, cutting a swath eleven feet wide and five feet deep, and making on an aver- 
age twenty-two clips per minute. 

"About two o'clock in the afternoon, a heavy thunderstorm came up, the rain falling in perfect 
torrents ; the lightning flashed, the blade gleamed as it was thrust into the heavy grain swirled by 
the angry storm ; slippers were thrown aside, and still this Ajax pushed ahead, determined to redeem 
his pledge or die in his tracks. 

"Despite all opposition, the cradler persevered. Finally, as the reappearing sun sank behind the 
western hills, the judges called time. The field was subsequently surveyed, and measured twelve and 
one-half acres. 

"The product of this remarkable day's cradling was 365 dozen sheaves of wheat, yielding, when 
threshed, 262 bushels of grain. The labor of four men was required for two days to bind his 
sheaves. 

"The story of this champion day's cradling— probably the greatest ever wrought by one man in 
the world — was confirmed to me by eye-witnesses. When it is known that three or four acres of 
good wheat, yielding 100 dozen of sheaves, is a good day's labor, this record seems almost incredi- 
ble; yet it is strictly true. The blade, which I myself examined and measured, was subsequently 
secured by the State Agricultural Society and put into a new form, corresponding with the old one, 
and the implement is preserved by the Society as a relic. Within the last few years this champion 
passed from the scenes of earth to the land bevond the river. May he rest serenely with the reapers 
there." 

Since the above was written, the cradle has been procured from the State Agricultural Society, 
and is now owned bv one of Mr. Cromer's grandsons. 

After this famous day's work, our hero's interests and ambitions turned to the gold fields of the 



H4 mh MnnvBbm^ 

then Far West, and, late in the year of 1859, he made the trip to Pike's Peak with General Fre- 
mont, locating there valuable claims. He remained at Pike's Peak until the breaking out of the Civil 
War, at which time anxiety and a desire to be near his family hastened his return, leaving all inter- 
ests in the hands of a trusted partner, who was subsequently killed by the Indians. 

Later in life he engaged in railroading, an occupation at which we of today remember him well. 
He was first engaged in driving the famous horse cars of the old Franklin Road, and later as con- 
ductor of the Cumberland Valley. At the completion of the South Penn Branch, he was made con- 
ductor on it, and thus had the honor of having conducted the first regular passenger train that made 
the run from Mercersburg to Chambersburg. When Mont Alto Park was first opened to the public, 
an expression made at that time, characteristic of the man, will long be remembered; the occasion 
being his first trainload of excursionists. Preceding them in the park and gaining a place of promi- 
nence, with head bared, facing the crowd, he remarked : "Ladies and gentlemen, this is Mont Alto 
Park, — just as Colonel Weistling and God made it." 

The officers of this same road have since honored his memory, and shown the appreciation felt 
for his zeal in their behalf by naming the station nearest his old home town, "Cromer," a tribute his 
friends appreciate and feel to be a deserving one. 

Sue Cromer Waidlich 





AMERICAN' VAI.OR 



ii^rr^rsburg 3n War ©tm^s 

Publialipil ^prtallH in ®1je MmsrsbtaQ ifnuntal 
AbrtbgpJi 

y',g-t% UIET old Mercersburg has never enjoyed and probably never will be granted anv special men- 
■ 1 [-^ tion upon the many pages of history that have been, and are yet to be recorded of the great 
I I Lj rebellion against the Union, its fearful strife and final suppression. 

V^/ A reasonably complete chronicle of local events during that period would, no doubt, be 

^^ very interesting and entertaining to the young people of our community who have never ex- 
perienced the realities of war; and even to those who have lived and suffered under the very shadow of 
rebellion, there is a peculiar pleasure in rehearsing the painful memories of those dark days and com- 
paring them with our present piping times of peace. 

On Thursday, the 29th day of November, i86o, a large number of people of Mercersburg as- 
sembled in Trinity Reformed Church to join in the thanksgiving services of the Nation. Rev. I. G. 
Brown preached the sermon. 

From that day of National thanksgiving until the loth day of April, 1865, when the ringing of 
the Seminary and church bells announced the surrender of Lee's army, the people of this community 
passed through a period of intense excitement. 

Pursuant to the Presidential proclamation, the 4th day of the new year, 1861, was observed as a 
fast day. Religious services were held in all the churches, and in the evening a union meeting in the 
Reformed church, at which addresses were delivered by Drs. Schaff and Wolfe. During that winter 
there were many meetings relative to the grave situation of public affairs. Dr. Schaflf delivered sev- 
eral lectures on the subject, "Slavery of the Bible." 

The interest in public affairs became intense, and rumor after rumor came and went; the ex- 
citement ran higher and higher until it culminated with the news that Fort Sumter had been fired 
upon early on the morning of April 12th. 

About the first of May a meeting of citizens was held and a company formed called the Home 
Guards. It consisted mostly of men over the age of forty-five years. 

Andy McAllister was the first man from town who enlisted in the war. It was the day after 
the first call for troops, April the 18th. He entered Campbell's Company. 

In Company C, of the Second Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers there were three men from Mer- 
cersburg, John K. Shatzer, David E. Hays, and Dr. John S. King. They enlisted in Company C 
from Greencastle in the latter part of April. Dr. King entered as a private soldier, but at York, Pa., 
in Mav, 1861, became a surgeon in the hospital there and afterwards occupied that position in the 
field. 

Some time during the summer a Volunteers' Aid Society was organized by the ladies of Mer- 
cersburg. In order to keep the Society in existence and place it upon a firm footing, the plan of hav- 
ing a course of lectures was adopted. The first lecture for this object was delivered by Dr. Philip 
Schaff, on the 19th of December. The remarkable price of twelve and one-half cents was charged 
for admission. 

On Thursdav, December 5th, the Government wagons came to town and were taken away the 
following morning with 1,200 bushels of oats, all of which was purchased from James O. Carson and 
Adam Hoke. Oiily a few days later the Government agent returned with his wagons and bought 
all the oats he could get, and' then advertized in the Good Intent, now thi? JVcekly Journal, for 5.000 
bushels more at thirty cents a bushel, cash. A stray copy of the Good Intent, found among a lot of 
time-stained papers, has this to say : — 

"We learn from our Burgess, G. G. Rupley, that the bonds of the borough have been given to 
the Countv Commissioners for 66 muskets and other necessary accoutrements for equipping that num- 
ber of men. The arms are furnished to the County Commissioners by the State for the formation of 
companies along the Southern border for home protection." * * * 

145 



146 mh MtmvBbm^ 



The rebels opened a cannonade of shot and shell against Dam No. 5 of the canal, near William- 
sport, Md., on the afternoon of Saturday, the 7th day of December. Frequent reports of what was 
supposed to be cannon were distinctly heard south of Mercersburg on that day, and our town be- 
came the scene of considerable excitement. Groups of persons could be seen all afternoon in front 
of Colonel Murphy's hotel (the Mansion House) and at different points along Main street, wonder- 
ing where it was and what it meant. 

The fact that the enemy had been almost within gun-shot of our town, and that our homes were 
liable to be attacked any moment, aroused our people to some action. The guns were there ready for 
use, and now men were wanted who were willing to use them in case of necessity. During the first 
week in January, 1862, an effort was made by John A. Hyssong, Esq., and others to raise a military 
company for home protection. Within a few days between twenty-five and thirty persons had en- 
rolled their names. 

During the winter, commencing with the first of January, 1862, very little of importance hap- 
pened that can be noted here. Much the same excitement prevailed all through, kept alive by the 
daily news from the seat of war. All the while companies were being raised and sent ofif to the 
front, leaving no local force to resist the raids that were soon to follow. Every battle whether vic- 
torious or disastrous to our forces served to start out one or two brave volunteers from our midst, 
who would join some regiment just fonning or report to the proper officer and have duties assigned 
them. In this way our community was represented in many different regiments and companies in the 
volunteer service. The company that Captain Dick raised was united with a company from McCon- 
nellsburg under Captain Lyon, forming one splendid body of men, attached to the regiment of Gen- 
eral McAllen. Captain Dick was given first position in this company. 

The Ladies' Aid Society, as then organized, had for its president, Miss Mary McDowell ; secre- 
tary. Miss Mary L. Coyle; and treasurer. Miss Lizzie Smith. 

On the 26t'h of May a company was being organized to proceed immediately to Harrisburg and 
from there to Washington. They had but that day heard of the call. On the morning of the 27th, 
fifty-three of the best young men of our town and vicinity were ready to start. They were that 
morning conveyed to Greencastle by stage, and there took the cars for the seat of war. 

We are now coming close to the time when the gallant One Hundred and Twenty-sixth regiment 
was formed — a regiment which, as another writer has expressed it, "Franklin County was pleased 
to consider peculiarly her own." About three weeks were occupied in getting this regiment in order. 

In this way company after company of our bravest men were recruited and sent away to fill up 
the broken ranks. It was not many months until there was not enough men and horses left in our 
community to do the necessary work upon the farms. The draft soon commenced to do its work, 
and there was a poor outlook for our town and all the towns along the border if the Rebels should 
succeed in crossing the Potomac. 

Wednesday, August the 6th, was an eventful day for the people of Mercersburg. Part of the day 
was cloudy and very warm, yet the streets were alive with men, women and children all day long. 
The company which had been organized and was to start away upon the morrow numbered one hun- 
dred and twenty-six men. The young men were kept busy all day preparing for departure and going 
around to take a last farewell of their friends. Dr. Robert Brownson had been chosen captain. 
Early in the evening the company was formed and marched under Captain Brownson to the Dia- 
mond, where a farewell meeting was held. 

Early the next morning the drum and fife commenced sounding their notes, calling the sleeping 
soldiers to arise and take up the march. They assembled in the Diamond, where vehicles were in 
readiness to take them to Greencastle. This was the departure of Company C of the One Hundred 
and Twenty-sixth regiment, Pennsylvania volunteers. 

The company of fifty-three men which was organized just after the defeat of Banks in May, pro- 
ceeded to Chambersburg on May 27th under the command of Captain Rupley. The first lieutenant was 
Samuel Hornbaker, afterwards first lieutenant of the One Hundred and Twenty-sixth. They re- 
mained in Chambersburg over night, expecting to be ordered to the front next morning, but by 
morning the condition of affairs had changed somewhat, and the situation was so much better under- 
stood by the authorities, that the services of this company were not then required and they were or- 
dered to return to their homes. 

On Monday, August 25th, quite a number of our citizens met on the town lot, where the engine 
house now stands, and formed themselves into a Home Guard. This was a revival of the company 



that left so hastily for Chambersburg after the repulse of Banks, or rather it was a gathering to- 
gether of those who yet remained home of that company. G. G. Ruplev was elected captain pro. tent. 
They paraded up and down Main street for a while, then were dismissed to meet the following Fri- 
day for the purpose of effecting a more permanent organization. 

On Sunday, September 7th, at morning service, Rev. Dr. Creigh gave notice to his congregation 
that there would be a meeting on Monday in the Diamond, to concert measures in their defense. He 
urged all who could bear arms to attend the meeting. Notice to this effect was given out by all the 
pastors of the town to their respective congregations. But it seems they did not wait until Monday, 
as it was deemed important that they should have information from different points. .\ meeting 
was called that same evening after service in the Presbyterian Church. William D. McKinstry, Esq., 
was chosen chairman and a Committee of Safety was appointed. Persons were sent that night to 
Clearspring, Greencastle and Chambersburg, for infomiation ; to report at the meeting on Monday. 

Early after dinner on Monday people began to collect in the Diamond. The meeting was or- 
ganized and a permanent committee appointed. The enrollment of citizens was commenced. Intelli- 
gence that the Rebels were occupying Frederick and that their pickets were being pushed forward 
to within fifteen miles of Hagerstown, was received amid great excitement. One hundred and ninety- 
six stand of arms had been brought from Chambersburg for the use of our companies. 

The town was from that time until after the battle of Antietam practically under martial law. 
Pickets were posted night and day on the pike leading to Greencastle, on the Shimpstown roads to- 
wards Hagerstown, and on the Corner road which leads through Blair's Valley. Again reports came 
of the advancement of rebels upon Hagerstown. Many families in Hagerstown and Clearspring 
were leaving for the North. Many passed through Mercersburg with their wagon loads of goods 
and valuables, hunting places of safety. 

We have below the names of those who were on picket duty during that time. The patrolling and 
establishing of pickets posts became the duty of Captain Rupley. 
No. I — Pike Relief — No. i 

T. C. Grove George Roth 

Solomon Divelbiss James McKinstry 

O. L. Murray Cyrus Murphy 

Daniel Tolheim Robert Shirtz 

No. 2 — Corner Road No. 2 

Jacob Potter J. Spangler Kieffer 

J. A. Hyssong Lewis Brewer 

M. Hays William Hayden 

Robert Shaffer Capt. G. G. Rupley 

No. 3 — Shimpstoum Road No. 3 

George McCleary Adam Orth 

John McCune Shannon Bowman 

Westley Divelbiss Bruce Lauderbaugh 

Daniel Hart Henry Lauderbaugh. 

The report came September nth that Hagerstown was in possession of the rebels. About 12 
o'clock that night the people were awakened by the ringing of the church bells and the sound of 
the drum and fife. Messengers had arrived to hurry our forces on to Greencastle, as the pickets of 
the rebel arm\- had advanced to near Shady Grove and within about four miles of Greencastle. While 
the town company under Captain Rupley was preparing to start, an order was received from Cham- 
bersburg to send our troops there as soon as possible. The mounted company under Captain Key- 
ser, composed of men from the country around Mercersburg, together with Captain Rupley's men, 
started for Chambersburg by way of St. Thomas. Before starting they were well supplied with 
rations bv the ladies, who packed in their wagons provisions enough to last for several days. 

When these companies reached the pike a few miles this side of St. Thomas, they were met by 
a messenger who informed them that the reports were very much exaggerated and incorrect, and that 
there was then no danger of a raid. Then for the second time within the space of six months, our men 
turned towards home without having as much as fired a gun. 

On Monday, September 15th, the remains of David Carson, son of Judge Carson, were brought 
home. He had contracted a disease while in camp at Harrisburg from which he never recovered, 
though he served for some time after that in the ranks. 



148 mh MmnBbnr^ 

At this same time the One Hundred and Seventh regiment was down in Virginia, fighting its way 
through, night and day. In one of these fierce engagements our townsmen, George Duncan, lost his 
life, and Captain John Dick, who was first reported missing, was afterwards found dead upon the 
field. 

In a letter written from camp Stanton, August 26, 1862, "Junior" writes: Our worthy Captain 
Brownson has already earned the respect and admiration of his men, and should he continue as he 
has begun a glorious future awaits him. Lieutenants Hornbaker and Trout too are hard at work. 
Orderly Sergeant Jas. J. McCullough is beloved as only a parent can love a child. His gentlemanly 
deportment and impartial demeanor towards his men have earned for him an esteem as creditable as 
it is honorable. 

William P. McCune is drummer for our company. John Miller, of Fannettsburg, is drum 
major and under his instructions "Old Bill" is learning very fast. 

The battle of South Mountain had closed on Sunday, September 14th, in victory for the Army 
of the Potomac, but the Confederates were not yet disposed to yield all the ground north of the river. 
General Lee drew up his forces in a strong position near Sharpsburg, where on Wednesday the sec- 
ond battle for that week was fought and won by our forces. 

On Tuesday afternoon a party of about twenty-five persons, including all the ministers of the 
town, started for the battlefield, which was supposed to be near Boonsboro. The omnibus was in 
charge of Solomon Divelbiss and carried about twenty persons. Several other persons joined the 
party in private conveyances. The names as far as we know now are as follows : 
Dr. T. A. Creigh Rev. John Agnew Daniel Shaffer Dr. E. Negley 

Rev. Heyd G. G. Rupley John Hoch Solomon Divelbiss 

Colonel Murphy Joseph Seylar Rev. I. G. Brown Dr. Philip Schaff 

Rev. Bruce O. L. Murray Herman Hause John Waidlich 

Hance Boyd Col. John Shirtz F. C. Waidlich T. C. Fitzgerald 

There was, perhaps, no period of time during the whole four years of welfare in which our com- 
munity felt more secure from rebel invasion, than from the close of the battle of Antietam until the 
loth day of October following. It will be seen that never in all her history had Mercersburg been 
so surprised and taken unawares as upon the loth day of October, 1862. 

George Wolfe, then constable of the borough, had gone early that morning to his farm in the 
"Corner." Dr. Creigh was returning from a meeting of the Presbytery at Bedford, and took dinner 
in McConnellsburg together with 'Squire Hyssong and Col. John Shirtz, who had gone over to Ful- 
ton county to buy potatoes. 

Mr. Rupley, captain of the home companies and burgess of the borough, was at work in his shop. 
The merchants were quietly attending to the wants of their few customers, who were unusually few 
owing to the threatening weather. The only really warlike person to be seen up until noon was Uncle 
Daniel Shaffer, who took down his trusty gun to shoot a chicken for a late dinner which he expected 
to enjoy that day with his family. 

George C. Steiger started out early in the morning over his accustomed route through Bridge- 
port and vicinity. He drove a fine pair of horses attached to his butcher wagon, but why he ran part 
and walked the rest of the way home through the rain and darkness that night will be fully ex- 
plained further on in our story. 

Gen. J. E. B. Stuart, with the flower of his famous cavalry, crossed the Potomac that morning 
at McCoy's ferry above Williamsport and proceeded to make a raid around the amiv of McClellan, 
such as he had made once before while the Army of the Potomac was nearer Richmond in the memor- 
able Peninsular campaign. 

Both raids were successful and the latter probably the more profitable to the bold cavalrymen, at 
least as far as gathering forage and horses was concerned. 

The number of troops has been variously estimated, one writer putting it as high as 3.500 
mounted men and six pieces of artillery. They advanced rapidly through the Blair's Valley road into 
the "Corner." While coming through Blair's Valley they halted two men on horseback who were 
traveling towards the river, but upon ascertaining that they were Maryland men, and as the rebels 
were laying claim to the State of Maryland at that time, these men were allowed to go without fur- 
ther molestation. 

This was not the case, however, with men whom they met with after crossing the line into Frank- 
lin county. 



mh iifmrBburg 149 

About a thousand men, wearing Union army overcoats and uniforms were sent ahead, and by 
this means our citizens were led to believe that they were Union cavalry. Such was Mr. Wolfe's con- 
clusion as they came swarming like bees down the road. They came thick and fast, and while Mr. 
Wolfe was standing beside one of his horses near the barn, inte'ntlv watching the unusual sight, one 
of the men, apparently an officer, stepped up and said : "I want that horse." Mr. Wolfe looked up 
in surprise and was about to say, "You can't take that horse, I'm an officer of the law," but just thought 
in time that it would be better not to say he was an officer. 

What he did say was this : "You can't have that horse. Governor Curtin has just issued an 
order that no more horses are to be impressed until further orders." "But," said the raider, "we are 
taking horses under Confederate authority." Then it was that Mr. Wolfe saw how he had saved 
himself, but not his horse, by not disclosing the fact that he was an officer of the law. They took 
seven fine horses from him, leaving him two worn-out animals which would have been of very little 
account to them. When the vanguard arrived at the forks of the road at Rhodes' Mill several squads 
of cavalry followed the road to Claylick, gathering horses from nearly every farmer by the way, while 
the main body of horsemen kept the straight road to Mercersburg. 

Jacob Brewer, father of our townsman, J. N. Brewer, was threshing grain that day, with the old- 
fashioned 8-horse power machine. The unwelcome intruders arrived there while the hands were at 
dinner and cleared the stables of every good horse to be found. 

From this point the party took their way across the countrs' to Claylick, and from there followed 
what we now call the Shimpstown road into Mercersburg, where thev joined the main body. At Clay- 
lick they took their first prisoner of war in the person of Joseph Winger. He was a staunch Union 
man all through the war and, although living very near the border, never hesitated to express his 
sentiments in unmistakable and, upon some occasions, very forcible terms. 

About half-past twelve, just when most of our people were quietly seated at their dinner tables, 
a few cavalry soldiers made their appearance in town, which unlooked-for occurrence attracted some 
little attention. Citizens came out to see them and to inquire from what point they had come and 
whither they were going. The young boys, always an.xious to see soldiers, crowded around, running 
in and out among the horses and gazing with evident admiration upon the bold-looking blue coats. 
For a little while everything seemed right and no suspicion was arou.sed against the soldiers until they 
commenced to swarm into town by the hundreds from the direction of the Corner. The ranks didn't 
look as blue as they appeared at first, but now it was the natives of the place who were suddenly turn- 
ing blue. 

The arrival of several thousand grey-coated cavalrymen closely following their disguised leaders 
quickly dispelled the delusion of our citizens that they were entertaining soldiers of the Federal army. 
The subsequent acts of lawlessness and undisputed assertion of Confederate authority threw the 
community into a high state of excitement, and although no violence was offered to the persons of 
any of our citizens, yet at first fears were entertained, not only for the safety of private property, but 
even for the freedom and security of life itself. Their stay was very brief, probably an hour and a 
half, yet immediately upon their arrival complete possession was taken of the town, which in a short 
time was patrolled and guarded by pickets at all points of approach, and the usual careful measures 
were adopted to prevent any one from going out with information which, if carried to the right place, 
might have been the means of defeating the well laid plans of the invaders. Scarcely had the first sur- 
prise, occasioned by this sudden appearance of the Johnnies, passed away, when it became cviderit 
that their intention was to improve the opportunities offered them by reason of the helpless condi- 
tion of our town to plunder and rob and make off with their booty. 

They soon set to work in good earnest. The store of J. N. Brewer, then on the corner now occu- 
pied bv Fallon's hardware store, was the first one entered for the purpose of plunder. In reply to 
the question as to how they went about it, or what conversation they held with him or with each 
other, Mr. Brewer savs : "Very few words were spoken either to me or among themselves. They 
simply walked in and helped themselves to boots, shoes and whatever else they wanted. The first that 
I knew of it was when I looked up and saw five or six of them coming in the door, having left others 
outside holding the horses. More soon followed, until they struck up quite a lively trade in boots and 
shoes. Not understanding the situation of affairs fully, I stepped up and said, 'How now, gentlemen, 
we can't stand this. We can't afford to be robbed in this way. Who's to pay for these things?' 
'Oh, we intend to pay you,' said one of their number, at the same time pulling out a roll of Confed- 
erate notes, which I refused to accept, though I believe I did take some of them afterwards to keep 



'50 (§Ui MnttvBbnr^ 



as curiosities. They were very particular to tell us that these bills would be the standard money be- 
fore very long, but of course we never believed that.'' By the time they had taken all they zvanted, 
Mr. Brewer found his stock pretty well depleted, and not much money to show for his large day's 
sale. 

In like manner the store of T. C. Fitzgerald, on what is now "Cherry Corner," was visited; while 
on the other side of the street the shelves of William D. McKinstry, T. C. Grove, Bradley & Company, 
and the shoe store of Matthew Smith, were fast being cleared of their contents. The postoffice. too, 
claimed a good share of attention. jMiss Maggie Grove was postmistress at the time and every- 
thing of value belonging to the department was destroyed or taken away. While all this was trans- 
piring, the officers of the town, namely, burgess and members of the council, and also some other citi- 
zens of less authority, were being placed under arrest. Several men were arrested for no apparent 
reason at all. Others again for speaking and acting in a way that seemed to be against the peace 
and dignity of the Confederate States of America. There was in fact verv little excuse for arresting 
any one in our community. The town was quietly given up and not the slightest resistance was 
offered by any of its inhabitants. 

Mr. Rupley overheard some one from the street inquire for the burgess of the town. He walked 
to the door, then out on to the pavement, where he beheld directly in front of him a squad of horse- 
men who immediately arrested and placed him under guard. This was a very sudden turn of afifairs, 
and was the first intimation our burgess had that anything unusual had happened that day. 

Dr. D. O. Blair was at this time editor of the Good Intent, but probably would not have been 
taken had it not been for the lively resistance he made to the taking of his horse. After some argu- 
ment on both sides, and a spirited race up the street for his freedom, he was finally made captive. 

Messrs. Louderbaugh and John McDowell were taken from their homes and made to bear the 
hardships of life with a cavalry company until they reached Chambersburg. Both were men far ad- 
vanced in years, Mr. McDowell being at the time in very delicate health. James Grove, whose home 
was in Baltimore, was also taken, for no other reason at all except that he was then on a visit to his 
sister, the postmistress. We have already spoken of Daniel Shaffer's intention to have a chicken for 
dinner that day. Had he known that at the very time when he was taking out his gun the rebels were 
entering the town, he would very likely have used some less warlike means of capturing his chicken. 
But of all things rebels were farthest from his thoughts at this particular time. He took aim, fired 
and missed his mark. The bird of ill omen cackled and ran this way and that, finally making its 
escape into a neighboring garden. The smell of burnt powder lingered in the air and the smoke was 
yet curling up from the muzzle of the rifle when several horsemen rounded the corner at Fayette and 
Seminary .streets, and swooped down upon the unfortunate marksman. An explanation of "Why 
that shot was fired," was hastily demanded, but it seems that no explanation of the affairs satisfac- 
tory to them was forthcoming. He had deliberately insulted the Palmetto flag by firing a gun in the 
presence of Southern chivalry, and accordingly he must be arrested and taken along with the other 
prisoners of war. He had not been under arrest long, when he discovered that other of his fellow 
townsmen were to share the same misfortunes with himself. 

After most of the business places had been visited to some purpose, the advance column began to 
leave town, taking the Bridgeport road and evidentlv bound for Chambersburg. They then had as 
prisoners, Daniel Shaffer, Perry A. Rice, C. Louderbaugh, John McDowell, James Grove, William 
Raby, D. O. Blair, G. G. Rupley, all from Mercersburg^ and Joseph Winger, of Oaylick. They had 
taken all the horses worth taking, except a few that were hurried off to the mountain by persons who 
had discovered the nature of the raid in time to get away in safety. Nearly every farmer along the 
line of march lost from two to five horses, while from Adam Hoke they took no less than eighteen. 

Herman Hause escaped capture on that day in the following manner: Alexander Logan, who 
was acting as one of the guides for Stuart's forces, had lived in Mercersburg some time before the war 
and worked for Mr. Hause quite a while. During Logan's stay in Mercersburg Mr. Hause had been 
a member of the town council. This fact was made known, and it was evidentlv the intention of the' 
rebels to take Mr. Hause with them. He had working for him an old colored man, called "Jess," who, 
overhearing some anxious inquiries for his master, ran for dear life down to the old stone church 
near the railroad, where Mr. Hause was then working, and cried out as he came to the church, "Run, 
boss, de rebels is in town and they're after you." Mr. Hause did not stop to learn particulars, but 
dropping his tools ran quickly out through the old graveyard, across the fields back of the Seminary 
and out to IMcFarland's farm, where he tried to get a horse. Not able to obtain a horse he ran to the 



creek, waded in and pulled for the other shore. Reaching the other side he took to the fields once 
more and never stopped until he got to Upton. 

We left George Wolfe at his farm, where the rebels had taken seven of his best horses when 
they first came out of Blair's Valley. They left him an old mule and one other worn-out horse. Be- 
coming uneasy as to what treatment his family at home would receive at their hands, he hastily 
mounted his old horse and rode towards town. Just at the lane near Palsgrove's farm he met the 
pickets who, he thinks, must have mistaken him for one of their own party, for he was allowed to 
ride on until he got about a hundred yards beyond them, when, for some' reason, their suspicions 
were aroused and he was called to halt. They asked him how far it was to some place, naming a town 
he knew nothing of. "Why," said he, "there's no such a place around here." 

"Come back here," said the guard, for they knew from his answer that he was not one of their 
men. Mr. Wolfe saw at once that he was caught and rode slowly back to the picket line, where he was 
obliged to wait until Captain White, one of the officers came up. White proved to be a very gentle- 
manly officer, and Mr. Wolfe said to him : Captain, you have taken all my horses, now I want to 
go to town and see what is to be done with my family." The captain allowed him to go and besides 
gave him receipts for all his stolen horses. Many persons took these receipts under the impression 
that they were of some value. 

Mr. Wolfe hastened at once to town, in company with Captain White. As they passed the resi- 
dence of Mr. Louderbaugh, they noticed that gentleman coming away from his home escorted by two 
soldiers. 

The main body of General Stuart's cavalry passed out of Mercersburg about half past two 
o'clock in the direction of Chambersburg. Those who were disguised with the uniforms of Union sol- 
diers had started somewhat earlier and were scattered all through the country between Mercer.sburg 
and Bridgeport. The farmers thereabout suffered much the same losses as their neighbors, except 
in a few cases where they received word of the raid in time to hurry off to the mountain and conceal 
their stock. 

'Squire John A. Hyssong and Colonel Shirtz, on their way home were met in the mountain not 
far from the Gap, by several men on horseback who informed them of the state of affairs in Mercers- 
burg. Upon hearing this they immediately turned back and made their way into Fulton county 
again. 'Squire Hyssong was at the time Internal Revenue Assessor and would undoubtedly have 
been taken had he continued his journey homeward. Another evidence of the feeling of security that 
prevailed in our community prior to this raid, and the complete surprise which it occasioned, may 
be found in the fact that a party of young folks were holding a picnic near the Gap on this very day, 
and were surprised while enjoying a good dinner in the woods by the appearance of a man hastily 
making his wav into the mountain with several horses. The news that the rebels were in town put 
quite a sudden termination to the festivities, although some of the party gave no credit to the story. 

The pickets about town remained at their posts until the last straggling cavalryman had departed. 
Then they, too, withdrew in good order and left all Mercersburg free to draw a long breath of relief. 
But it was onlv a breath, for the invaders were kind enough to inform the good citizens of Mercers- 
burg and vicinity that an army of 20,000 infantry followed closely in the trail of General Stuart 
and would reach our town in a very few hours. 

The prisoners taken at Mercersburg were compelled to walk until they reached the junction of 
the Loudon and Bridgeport roads, about a mile from town. Here they were met by several squads of 
men with a fre.sh supply of horses taken from the neighboring farmers. Riding outfits were scarce in 
those davs, and our captives, though allowed to ride, were forced to go it boy fashion, without saddle 
and with a halter as the only means of guiding and curbing their steeds. 

Mr. Joseph Winger was more fortunate than his fellow prisoners, as far as the conveniences of 
travel were concerned. Before leaving Claylick he bargained with the officer in charge that he was 
to ride his own horse, and also that he'was to go no further than the Potomac river. But the faith 
was not kept, and in accordance with an order of General Lee these captives, including Mr. Win- 
ger, were hurried forward to Richmond and confined within the drean' walls of Libby Prison and 
Castle Thunder. We neglected to mention that besides taking Mr. Winger himself, they helped them- 
selves freely at his store in Clavlick, taking goods to the amount of three hundred dollars, which 
thev paid in Confederate notes. 'This money Mr. Winger was afterwards fortunate enough to sell to 
parties in Maryland, getting twentv-five dollars in United States money for every hundred dollars 
of it. He, and 'those who had him i'n charge, did not dismount or stop for any length of time in Met- 



'52 mh MntnBbnvQ 

cersburg, and he neither saw any of the other prisoners nor knew of their capture until they all ar- 
rived in Chambersburg. 

Leaving our prisoners and the rebel hosts to pursue their course towards Chambersburg, we now 
turn our attention to another little chapter in the history of that day, the recital of which will bring us 
back to Stuart and his army, before they have advanced many miles upon their journey. 

On the afternoon of which we are now writing, Mr. George C. Steiger was driving leisurely 
down the hill from Bridgeport in the direction of home. Attached to his butcher wagon were two 
fine young horses and in the wagon, besides the tools of his trade was a young calf which he had pur- 
chased from a farmer, intending to supply his customers with fresh veal next morning. He had 
drawn down the curtains of his wagon to protect himself from the drizzling rain, and letting the horses 
take their time, was doubtless thinking, among other things, of the good supper that awaited him at 
home. Chancing to look ahead he saw the road filled with soldiers coming towards him. "Union 
cavalry," said he to himself and drove on. As he approached they called him to halt and inquired the 
distance and direction to this and that place. After a few pleasant words had been exchanged one of 
the horsemen said, "Suppose you let us have those horses." 

"Oh, no," Mr. Steiger said, "I can't do that — I need these horses for my business." 

They did not insist much and after a little further conversation let him drive past. After driv- 
ing a short distance he encountered another squad who told him that he had better turn around and 
go along. He made some reply in a laughing way, thinking all the while that they were merely jok- 
ing with him. They again demanded the team but he paid no attention to them. Then one of the 
number said : "Wait until some of the officers come up and we will show you." They detained him 
there until one of the officers arrived upon the scene. Another demand was then made for the team, 
and upon Mr. Steiger again refusing, the officer becoming more in earnest reached back and drew out 
a pistol. "Oh," said Mr. Steiger, "you can't scare a butcher with firearms like that. We see too 
much blood in our business for that." 

But they finally persuaded him to give up the team. They did not turn the horses, however, 
but pemiitted him to drive on towards home until they reached the creek where part of the main 
body had made a halt. 

When Mr. Steiger arrived at the creek and saw his fellow townsmen there, mounted upon bare- 
backed horses, his eyes began to be opened and this time he said to himself, "rebel cavalry." 

Before starting again, some officer in authority told Messrs Rupley and McDowell to dismount 
from their horses and get into the wagon, which order, of course, they were only too glad to obey. 
Mr. Steiger was allowed to act as driver of his own team, though he now considered himself as much 
a prisoner as those with him in the wagon. The soldiers whose duty it was to guard these prisoners, 
acted in a very rough manner towards Mr. Steiger. On one occasion when he drove up rather close 
to the ranks directly in front of him, the guard at his side ordered him back in terms by no means 
gentle. And then again, when he drove slower and came too near to those just behind him. they 
would order him to drive ahead, using the same harsh language, so that after a while he gave up the 
the idea of trying to please them and drove to suit himself unmindful of their unmannerly jargon. 
When they reached the top of the hill at Bridgeport he hailed Mr. Henninger, who was standing in 
the yard, and told him to take the calf and keep it, at the same time lifting it out of the wagon. The 
calf was successfully taken out of the wagon and carried to a place of safety without attracting any 
special attention from the soldiers. A little distance further on j\lr. Steiger rolled up his scales and 
knives in a cloth and handed them to one of the citizens of Bridgeport to keep for him. 

Some distance beyond Bridgeport, at the farm of Archie McDowell, a halt was made and the 
raiders proceeded to feed their horses from a cornfield next the road. Mr. Steiger said he believed it 
was time to feed his horses and, suiting the action to the word, stepped down and walked over into the 
field, leaving his fellow citizens to wait for him in the wagon. He did not conceive the idea of 
making his escape until he was some distance over in the field. He then noticed that the soldiers 
were busy plucking corn and were not paying much attention to him. Walking cautiously from one 
shock to another, he moved further and further away from the road until he reached a kind of ravine 
in the field, at which place he looked carefully around him. Seeing that the hill concealed him from 
the view of his captors, he started and ran like a deer for his liberty and for home. He kept on to- 
wards the creek until he reached a house where Jacob Kreps had been working that day. He and 
Mr. Kreps started to walk home together, keeping in the fields all the while lest they might meet 
that myth which was to them an army of 20,000 foot soldiers. When they reached Dickey's mill it 



was very dark and raining hard, but they groped their way through briars, over stumps and fences 
until they reached town. Mr. Steiger went down through the meadow, and in the back way to his 
house. Judge Carson had been there and told the family of the affair, and quite a crowd of people 
had already collected to condole with the family when in walked the very subject of their anxiety, 
wet, tired, and hungry, but safe and sound. He saw a good many long faces in the crowd quickly 
brighten up with pleasure and surprise, but among them all Mr. Steiger flatters himself that his wife 
was the happiest woman and he the happiest man. 

Judge Carson was unfortunate enough to meet the raiders. He was compelled to get down from 
his horse and surrender the animal to them. He appealed to them not to leave a man of his age there 
alone in the country without means of getting home, whereupon they gave him an old horse in ex- 
change for his own. They did not take him along, probably on account of his advanced age. Mr. 
Steiger himself would have been allowed to go free, too, had he given up his team without offering 
such lively resistance, but he was imbued with the idea that, under Governor Curtin's order, Union sol- 
diers would have no right to take his horses ; and he was right in this, but unfortunately for him, the 
men into whose hands he had fallen paid no respect to the authority of Governor Curtin, nor of any 
one north of the Mason and Dixon line. 

At St. Thomas one more prisoner was added to the list in the person of William Conner. He 
was taken tp Libby prison and remained there until March, 1863, when he was exchanged and re- 
turned to his home. 

A slight accident occurred just before the party reached Chambersburg, which in itself was noth- 
ing unusual in army experience, yet in its results upon the fortunes of our captives it amounted to con- 
siderable and lessened to a great extent Mr. Rupley's chances for escape. One of the soldiers in 
some way received an injury to his foot. He was brought to the wagon in which Messrs. Rupley 
and McDowell were riding, and in order to make room for him Mr. McDowell was very unceremoni- 
ously ordered out and a caisson, or ammunition wagon was assigned for him to ride upon. This 
mode of travel would no doubt have been very disastrous in its effects upon Mr. McDowell, consid- 
ering his age and the delicate state of his health. Mr. Rupley saw this at once and very considerately 
offered to take Mr. McDowell's place. This offer was accepted, and no objections on the part of 
the soldiers being made to the arrangement, Mr. Rupley took up his position where the powder and 
balls were thickest and bravely maintained his stand until they reached camp on the other side of 
Chambersburg. 

After the accident alluded to, Daniel Shaffer, who had been heroically making his way up hill 
and down upon a bare-backed horse, was ordered to take charge of the wounded man's horse. He 
says that the people of Chambersburg must have thought he was "one of them," as he had the regula- 
tion army saddle and bridle, and two big horse pistols, one on each side of the saddle, in front. 

Arriving in Chambersburg General Stuart and other officers, as well as the prisoners, lodged 
that night in the Franklin House. The soldiers proceeded to the edge of town, where they encamped 
for the night. Mr. Rupley had no opportunity of stopping in town but was taken through to camp, 
where he was obliged to remain. He sat down by the fire feeling tired, cold and hungry. While he 
was yet sitting there no less a personage than Gen. Wade Hampton came up to him, and after a 
little conversation, in which the names and circumstances of each were made known to the other, the 
General pulled out a piece of meat from his haversack and with the aid of an old pocket knife divided 
with the prisoner. After the General had cut the pork and handed one piece to his messmate, he 
walked over to a tree and cut off a branch which he sharpened at one end and stuck it through the 
meat. This done, he sat down by the fire and held the meat over the flames until it was fried or 
whatever the result of such a process may be called. This wasn't a very choice meal, but, "under the 
circumstance," savs Mr. Rupley, "it tasted pretty good." After the victor and the vanquished had 
finished their simple meal the pri'soner was asked whether he had any place to sleep. He replied that 
he had not. General Hampton then directed him to a house not far away and told him that he 
would find lodgings there. 

On the following morning— Saturday— Messrs. Louderbaugh and McDowell were released and 
allowed to return home. All the other prisoners were taken along with the raiders, who took their de- 
parture eastward across the South Mountain. The last seen of Mr. Rice in Chambersburg was just 
before the start, when he was observed by several men who knew him, seated upon a caisson in front 
of the Mansion House. It is likely that most of his journey to Richmond was made upon that 
wagon. 



>54 mh MmHBbntQ 



Dr. Blair and Mr. Raby had about the same accommodations for travel until they made their es- 
cape in Montgomery county, Maryland, just before crossing the Potomac. 

The prisoners, who remained in Chambersburg all night, had several good opportunities for es- 
cape. Several of Mr. Rice's friends tried to persuade him to get away, but he refused to do it, think- 
ing that his companions might suffer all the more for it. Mr. Shafer says he could easily have 
gotten away, but for the same reason he resolved to stay with the others, so that when they called in 
the morning for "the man with the big beard," as they named him, he soon made his appearance. 

Leaving Chambersburg on Saturday morning they arrived in Leesburg on the next Sunday week, 
and on the next day — Monday — they were shut up within the walls of Libby. Messrs. Rupley and 
Winger remained there as prisoners until the first of December following, when they were released 
on parole, reaching Washington on their way home, December 4th. 

Mr. Rice died in prison some time in January, 1863, and Messrs. Grove, Shaffer and Conner were 
not exchanged until the following March. 

On the 24th news was received that two members of Company C had been killed and four 
wounded. Those killed were W. W. Brinkley and Dallas E. Mowen. The wounded were J. Huston 
Work, who died several years ago from the effect of his wounds ; Levi Fritz, J. Brewer Cushwa and 
W. Hays McClelland. 

About the ist of December Messrs. Rupley and Winger, together with four other prisoners, were 
released from Libby through the efforts of Hon. Edward McPherson and others. They were at first 
released on parole, and afterwards an exchange was effected. 

The Ladies' Aid Society had sent off up to the middle of January, 1863, eighteen boxes valued 
at $400. This, of course, would not be counting the thousand and one little delicacies and articles of 
comfort that were sent whenever opportunity offered. 

The funeral of William Walt, aged nineteen, who died in camp of typhoid fever, was held on the 
8th of March. Several weeks afterwards the body of Adam McClelland reached home and was bur- 
ied on the i8th of March. 

Rumors had reached home of the sickness and probable death of Mr. Rice, in prison at Rich- 
mond, but nothing definite could be learned about him until, on March 21st, intelligence was received 
that he had died on the 28th of February. On March 27th David Scully returned home from the 
army, completely broken down and no longer able to undergo the hardships of army life. 

The members of Company C who were wounded at Chancellorsville are as follows : Thomas D. 
Metcalfe, David L. Coyle, wounded slightly, Bruce Bryson, George Cole, James McConnell, William 
McDowell, W. E. McKinstry, slightly, James O. Parker, Joseph Ripple, William M. Starliper, John 
L. Zimmerman. Nicholas C. Trout was killed and David F. McDonald taken prisoner. J. A. Mc- 
Colloh died of fever while the regiment was yet in camp, March 31st. Major Brownson arrived 
home on the evening of the 15th and reported that Company C was in Harrisburg and in high spirits 
at the expectation of getting home in a few days. All through the week friends were providing and 
anxiously looking for the return of the soldiers, but they did not arrive until Saturday evening, May 
23d. 

Great excitement prevailed in the evening when it became known for certain that the Company 
would arrive. An immense concourse of people assembled in the Square to receive them. After the 
Company had marched in with flying colors to the music of the drum, the meeting was organized and 
exercises of a touching nature were held in the street. The choirs of the different churches met to- 
gether on Colonel Murphey's Hotel veranda and sang two beautiful selections — an introductory and a 
closing piece. Rev. Buckley, of the Methodist church, offered up a prayer, and then came the address 
of welcome by Rev. Thomas Creigh. The exercises were solemn and impressive, but it was a joyous 
occasion, and there was not that element of sadness present that characterized the farewell meeting 
which took place on the same spot a little over nine months before. 

Of this Company, numbering over a hundred men, only four died of disease in camp, three were 
killed in battle, two at Fredericksburg and one at Chancellorsville. Quite a number were wounded, 
though only two or three seriously. 

On Friday, June 19th, for the second time during the war, the rebels made a raid through our 
town and neighborhood. This expedition was under the immediate command of Colonel Jenkins, of 
Mosby^s cavalry and numbered about 250 men. About i o'clock in the morning thev passed through, 
not doing any damage to us as a town. Thev proceeded through the Gap to McConnellsbui^ and 



part the way down the Cove. This was the first visit of the Confederates to McConnellsburg. They 
came back over the Hunter road and passed throug:h Mercersbiirg about 3 o'clock in the afternoon. 
On their return quite a number of horses were taken from farmers near town. Six were taken from 
David Weiler and the same number from Mr. McCullough. 

Next morning the excitement, which had become already very high, was greatly increased by the 
arrival of 100 Union soldiers who were on the hunt for the Jenkins party. Thev passed through town 
hastily, but, as usual, were too late, as Jenkins and his men had taken the Claylick road to Williams- 
port and were, no doubt, by this time, safe in Rebeldom with their bootv. 

On Sunday, June 21st, services in the churches could not be held owing to the excitement created 
by a rumor that the rebels were coming. Early this morning the mail was brought in from Green- 
castle — the first time for over a week. 

On Tuesday a rebel force of sixteen men passed boldly through our streets and out into the country 
where they succeeded in gathering up another lot of horses and cattle. This was the party that took 
John McClelland prisoner that day. 

On Wednesday, June 24th, five regiments of rebel infantry passed through town. The men 
marched in good order without molesting anyone, and camped out of town, west of the tollgate. It 
was estimated there were in all about 2,000 men, with six pieces of artillery. This was a part of Gen- 
eral Ewell's command. In the evening about 150 of Imboden's cavalry passed through, and about dusk 
all were reported to be wending their way through Cove Gap. On Thursday, the 25th, guerilla parties 
and small detachments of regulars were in and out of town and through the country all day long, 
gathering up horses, cattle and sheep. R. P. McFarland was stripped of a fine flock of sheep, 150 in 
number. 

John Divelbiss tells us that he at different times saw Main street completely filled with horses 
ready to start in a moment's notice and at one place in the upper end of Path Valley he saw as many 
as ten thousand horses being harbored there together until it would be safe to return them to their 
homes. 

All night long of Thursday, June 25, 1863, rain poured down in torrents, and Friday morning 
dawned upon a very gloomy looking little town whose people, disheartened and dejected, could hear 
no tidings from their own army, nor see anything in the movements of the invaders that might be con- 
strued into a hope of speedy deliverance from the fear of their enemies. 

The Confederate cavalry were still encamped in Ritchey's woods north of town. From that place 
as a basis of operations they were constantly making excursions through the country. These horsemen, 
wrapped in large gum coats, splashed with mud and dripping wet, kept the community in a high state 
of excitement all day long, as they passed and repassed through Main street. 

Well, here comes an officer and a squad of men riding up Main street! The men acting as body 
guard take up the whole street from one pavement to the other. The officer rides ahead and is making 
proclamation of something. Our citizens appear at their front doors and listen for some dread an- 
nouncement. What does "the officer say : "We intend to search every house in this town for contra- 
bands and fire arms and wherever we discover either we will set fire to the house in which they may 
be found." 

Something more was added to this proclamation no more welcome to the ears of our citizens 
than the part we have given. It was certainly a startling announcement, and struck terror to the heart 
of more than one man who was at the time 'a party to the concealment of fugitive slaves. We do 
know that there were eleven runaway negroes in the second story of George Wolfe's washhouse dur- 
ing part of that week, and that others were in hiding about town. 

On Saturday, the 27th, the guerillas who were encamped in the woods north of town, took their 
departure through towards Greencastle, taking with them about a dozen colored persons, mostly con- 
traband, women and children; a large flock of sheep and cattle, a number of wagons loaded with plun- 
der, and the usual drove of horses. 

We turn back now to Wednesday, June 24th, the day that the first rebel infantry passed through 
our town. There were, as we have said, about 2,500 men, a part of General Ewell's command, under 
General "Infantry" Stuart, as he was called to distinguish him from General "Jeb" Stuart the cavalrj- 
leader. They had six pieces of artillery and several hundred cavalrymen with them. \\ hen they ap- 
peared upon' the pike at Bradley's Hill,' George Mowery, who then lived some distance in from the toll- 
gate, where Van T. Bradley now resides, saw them coming and started immediately for town and gave 



& 



156 mh MntnBbnv^ 

the word. Atchison Ritchey, Esq., went at once to Constable Wolfe and asked him to carry a map 
of Franklin county to the Gap for the use of a Company of one hundred Union cavalry stationed there. 
Mr. Wolfe mounted his horse and started out with the map. In due time he delivered the map to- 
gether with what news he possessed in regard to the approach of the enemy. This news was too much 
for the brave defenders, who without consulting the map at all, vaulted into their saddles and galloped 
over the mountain and no one knows to this day exactly where they drew rein. 

Mr. Wolfe had not gone far on his way home when he met John Holman going towards the 
mountain on foot. He had some days before made an arrangement with Mr. Wolfe for the use of a 
horse to make a trip into Bedford county. 

''Now, Holman," said Wolfe, "you may have this horse. Take him far enough away and use him 
well." The offer was readily accepted, and Mr. Wolfe wended his way toward home on foot. It was 
a happy arrangement for both parties, the one having a convenient way to travel, and the other put- 
ting his horse out of reach of the rebels. 

Several rebels in search of horses were making a little expedition into the "Corner," and when 
they came near to the Rhodes' farm, a workman there saw them, and with all possible haste ran to the 
woods where Jacob Rhodes was at the time engaged in hauling wood. He had with him a fine pair 
of horses of which he was very proud. Being told there were several supposed rebels in the vicinity 
he unhitched the team at once and rode through the woods towards the mountain. But at a small open 
place in the woods he came abruptly upon the men who were looking for good horses. Thev of 
course demanded the horses, at once taking the one he was leading and ordering him to dismount from 
the other. He demurred very strongly against this hasty procedure and being probably somewhat con- 
fused at the sudden meeting, said, "I can't spare this horse as I am a member of the Home M ." 

"Oh, if that's the case, then we'll take you too," said his captor, and in spite of all his pleadings 
and entreaties, they compelled him to go with them, much to his dismay and indignation. He was kept 
near Bridgeport for about two days when they permitted him to return home. 

He joined the army in the fall of 1863, and was afterwards taken prisoner at Cold Harbor, and 
is supposed to have died in Andersonville prison. Henry C. Hornbaker, who spent almost two years in 
Andersonville himself, says that he left Mr. Rhodes there in a dying condition. 

William Pittman tells us that a brother of Jacob Rhodes was also captured by a party of rebels 
near his father's farm. They put him on an army mule, with a rope halter as his only guide. He 
did not grow despondent, as most men in like position would, but on the contrary became unusually 
cheerful and cut up some queer antics, such as jumping ofiE and on the old mule, riding backwards and 
performing many other little feats after the best style of a circus clown. All this greatly amused the 
guerrillas for a while, but at length they became tired of it and after pronouncing him an idiot, allowed 
him to go free. 

On Friday, June 26th, as the different squads passed and repassed through the streets, several of 
our colored men were observed to be in their custody — two of these were John Filkill and Findlay 
Cuff. They were taken along with a number of others, having before them the cheerless prospect of 
being sold as slaves in the far South. Some of these unfortunates were brought back, or found their 
way home again after six months or a year. Others were never returned or heard of afterward. Sam- 
uel Brooks, one of the unfortunate captives, was sought for diligently by his father, Arnold Brooks, 
and was recognized some time afterward on the streets of Baltimore by one of our citizens, and re- 
turned to his home. He used to entertain his friends for hours at a time with the wonderful stories of 
his experience with the Confederate Army ; how he 'tended to this General and waited on Colonel so- 
and-so ; how the Captain drew out his pistol and threatened to kill him deader'n a door nail; and many 
other little hairbreadth escapes which were depicted in the most glowing colors before manv an eager 
and attentive audience gathered around some cellar door on the sunny side of Main street. Then, with 
some little persuasion on the part of his listeners, he would usually cap the climax by relating the story 
of his love affair, which is supposed to have transpired while he was in captivity. The object of his 
adoration varied slightly in description at different times, but she was a beautiful girl from the far 
South and lived on an old plantation. Then followed a glowing description of her eyes, hair and form, 
which lasted usually from ten to fifteen minutes. The tate seemed to set forth the fact very clearly that 
she had fallen deeply in love with him, and that he merely permitted it but finally grew to reciprocate 
the tender passion. After a short season of unalloyed happiness, the two were separated and saw each 
other no more forever. 



Poor Sam ! Quietly and slowly he sawed and chopped his way through this world, and passed 
away from earth. Kind friends cared for and laid him to rest, for he had no living relations. Stu- 
dents of Mercersburg College will long remember the many little acts of kindness he perfomied for 
them, and the hours of amusement he afforded at the college building with his laughable imitations 
and mimicry of the different members of the faculty. He was slow to move and improvident, but 
harmless and free from bad habits, and above all had a kind heart. Perhaps he was not as fully en- 
dowed with reason as the average man, and if so, it called only for pity and no one now will say 
him harm. 

Sunday, June 28th, was comparatively a quiet day in our community. The churches were open, 
but religious services claimed the attention of very few people. Onlv one squad of the enemy ap- 
peared during the day to interrupt the peace and quiet of the Sabbath. ' This was sometime during the 
afternoon. A reconnoitering party passed through town without creating much disturbance. 

On Monday another party of rebels passed through from the "Corner," having in their possession 
thirty-nine stolen horses. This day also brought forth the usual number of fresh rumors in regard to 
the movements of the Union army, and they were attended with no more certainty and just as much 
contradiction as those received the previous week. 

Tuesday, June 30th, was perhaps the most exciting day yet experienced under Jeff Davis rule. 
There was perhaps not one citizen who did not pass through some experience of an interesting char- 
acter at the hands of Imboden's men that day. General Imboden encamped along the pike near the 
Gap. Early on Tuesday morning he and his staff rode into town and made the following requisition 
of the inhabitants : 

Five thousand pounds of bacon, twenty barrels of flour, two barrels molasses, two barrels sugar, 
two sacks of salt and one hundred and fifty pairs of shoes. At the time this requisition was made the 
force had moved down from the Gap and were encamped above the tollgate in Ritchey's woods. 

Some feeble protests were made by citizens against this demand, but the General said that if they 
failed to furnish the necessary provisions, he would niarch his men into town and occupy the lower 
parts of houses. There was no alternative, citizens were powerless to resist it, and the order had to 
be complied with bv 11 :20 that morning. The town was divided into four sections and a committee, 
consisting of one rebel and two citizens, was consigned to each district. The result of the first canvass 
was as follows : One thousand pounds of bacon, fifteen barrels of flour, two barrels of molasses, two 
barrels of sugar, two sacks of salt and thirty pairs of shoes. This was not at all satisfactory and 
another demand was made. The committee set to work again, this time making a much closer search. 

Fortunately for the town, about the time the committees were making their most desperate efforts 
to comply with General Imboden's demand, a man riding upon a mule made his appearance at the 
southern end of town. He came from the direction of Greencastle, and the condition of his poor 
jaded beast very plainly indicated that he had been making fast time. He came through town on a 
dead run and halted not until he reached Imboden's camp. He proved to be the bearer of a dispatch 
from the headquarters of General Lee's army. 

Immediately there was a commotion in camp, and orders to march were at once given. Any one 
who is in the least familiar with the events that transpired during the next three days near Gettysburg, 
can imagine the importance of this hasty departure. 

Their departure was so sudden that they left a large amount of provisions out on the street, just 
where our citizens had placed them. They passed through town and followed the pike to Greencastle. 
The force consisted of nearly 600 cavalry, 6 pieces of cannon, about 400 infantry and over 50 baggage 
wagons. These wagons, loaded up with provisions, together with a drove of stolen horses made quite a 
procession. 

While the division of the Confederate General Heth and the Union cavalry under General Bu- 
ford were opening the first day's battle of Gettysburg in a terrific engagement on Seminary Ridge, 
morning of July ist, our old town was again honored by a company of marauders— this tmie under the 
leadership of the celebrated Captain McNeill. About i o'clock in the afternoon they appeared, and 
although their stay was brief vet, in the words of one who witnessed it, "it was the most terrific of any 
we have had." they took off goods from Messrs. Fitzgerald, McKinstry and Shannon. 

Our merchants of course had the most of their goods shipped away or concealed at different 
points along the mountain. Manv valuable goods were saved in this way, but upon this occasion, it 
seems, a young man who had lived' in our neighborhood for some time, joined McNeill's party and 



158 mh Mj^xmsbnr^ 

acted as guide while they were in the vicinity and was still with them when they left. This young 
traitor knew where the goods of Messrs. Shirtz, McKinstry and Fitzgerald were concealed and lost no 
time in imparting that important information to his new made friends. He first directed them to a 
place near the mountain, where they found some of the booty, and then informed them that McKins- 
try's and Fitzgerald's goods were in the little Cove. Some of them were at the farm of John Fritz, a 
retired spot to the right of the road at the entrance to the Cove, and others were concealed at a place 
further down the Cove. A party of five, including the guide, made the expedition into the mountain, 
found the goods and succeeded in getting away with them. 

On Friday, July 3d, Mr. Wolfe, in company with Mr. Fitzgerald, started in the direction of 
Hagerstown. Wolfe was on his own horse and Fitzgerald was walking, expecting to get a horse a 
few miles out, at Witherspoon's mill. As they passed up the street a group of persons was noticed at 
the 'Squire's office. Judge Carson and others were examining two Union soldiers who had come into 
town from the direction of Maryland. These scouts reported among other things, that General Hooker 
was sick and McClellan had taken command of the Union army on Tuesday morning, June 30th. 
Some supposed these men to be deserters from the Union army, while others held to the opinion that 
they were rebel spies. However, it is generally agreed now that they were members of Milroy's unfor- 
tunate command, which had not long before been completely routed at Winchester by the rebels and 
scattered through this and Fulton counties. At any rate they were Union men, as they most effectually 
proved to our community not more than an hour after their examination was over. Messrs. Wolfe and 
Fitzgerald proceeded slowly out the pike and before they reached the farm of C. A. Eberly, near the 
tollgate, three horsemen appeared in sight upon Bradley's hill. This caused our party to halt, and 
Mr. Wolfe, after looking for some time, said he believed them to be rebels. Not being certain, how- 
ever, he told Mr. Fitzgerald to walk ahead and if they proved to be rebels, to signal. The day being 
quite warm Fitzgerald had taken his coat off and carried it upon his arm. The signal agreed upon was 
that if they were rebels he was to change his coat from one arm to the other. Mr. Wolfe dis- 
mounted and pretended to be very busy fixing at the saddle girth and bridle, all the while intently 
watching for the signal. In addition to his own traps Wolfe carried the saddle which his companion 
expected to use. At last the signal came. Quick as thought Mr. Wolfe jumped into his saddle and 
turned towards town. His pursuers dashed in after him at break-neck speed. Mr. Wolfe had some- 
what the start of them, and although they cried halt and fired at him, he put the extra saddle up to 
protect his back, and went ahead. His pursuers halted at the foot of the hill near Nelson Wilson's 
house, and there they got into a quarrel about what they should do. One of them, it seems, wanted 
to come into town, but the others did not. 

Meanwhile Mr. Wolfe rode down town and tried to get others to help him capture these rebels, 
but not succeeding in this, he rode up to the head of town to see what had become of them. They 
fired upon him again, and this time raced him clear down to the Diamond, where they lost track of 
him. 

Milroy's men, who had been in a restaurant at the time, were infomied of what was going on, 
and had posted themselves behind trees on West Seminary street, near the Mansion House kitchen. 
The instant that the rebels appeared in the Diamond the Union men fired upon them from behind the 
trees, killing Private Alban instantly. The shot passed through his left breast and through his body, 
striking and killing the horse of Lieut. William Cane, which fell heavily upon its rider, injuring him 
considerably. The third rebel wheeled and rode hastily up street, followed by the horse of the man 
who had been killed. Those who saw the affair say that after the shot was fired Alban never moved, 
and no one knew that he had been shot until his horse walked slowly over to the corner at Fallon's 
hardware store. When the horse stopped at a tree box, the rider fell off, and then for the first time 
was it known that he had been shot. Dr. Negly went to him and endeavored in every way to make him 
speak, but he never uttered a word and must have died almost instantly. 

These men were members of the Twelfth Virginia cavalry. Captain Shaver's Company. The 
name of the one who was killed was Alban, a private. Lieut. William Cane was the one who was cap- 
tured, after having his horse shot under him, and the third, who made his escape, was Schaeffer, a 
Marylander. 

The dead soldier was buried in short order in the lot owned by the Turnpike Companv, where 
there was then a brick kiln directly west of the new public school building. Next day, however, July 



4th, the body was taken up, put in a coffin and buried in the old Presbyterian graveyard alone the east 

fence. o j e. 

The rebel who made his escape after his comrade had been shot, rode rapidly up Main street, fol- 
lowed closely by the loose horse from which the dead man had just fallen. It is said that as the' flee- 
ing horseman passed up street Mr. James Bennett, a veteran of the War of 1812, fired at him with his 
rifle. The general opmion seems to be that the old man missed his mark, though the Journal of 
January, 1864, tells us that "the third wheeled and galloped up the street when James Bennett, pri- 
vate in the War of 1812, and a man of 88 years, seeing him, stepped out and fired with his trusty 
rifle. But the rebel passed on. The rifle snapped, but putting on another cap he fired again. He did 
not kill him, though blood could be traced for two miles." 

Lieutenant Cane, partly stunned by having his horse fall upon him, raised himself up and stag- 
gered over on to the cellar door at Fallon's corner, then ran down street and into the alley. Lieu- 
tenant Bohn, a Union soldier who was at this time home on a furlough, ran down Fayette street and 
up the alley and captured Cane at Judge Carson's ice house. Other persons had followed him down 
street, so that when he came to the ice house, he was completely surrounded and had to surrender. 
It is said that Milroy's men, one of whom had fired the fatal shot, suddenly disappeared directly after 
the shooting, and no one knew what had become of them. Likely they were considerably frightened 
at the turn things had taken, not knowing what force the rebels might' have near at hand. But they 
did not molest our town further upon this occasion. They were too busily engaged elsewhere, for Lee 
had already commenced the famous retreat from Pennsylvania after his disastrous defeat at Gettys- 
burg. 

Many accounts of the retreat of the great wagon train from Gettysburg have been written, one 
of the most interesting being that of General Imboden, who, with his cavalry, had charge of the 
train until it crossed the river at Williamsport. 

Mercersburg, though off the route of the great procession, experienced a full share of the excite- 
ment and suflfering incident to that memorable flight. 

The following account of the dash upon and capture of a part of this train was given by Lieu- 
tenant Irvin to Dr. J. Spangler Kieffer, who was an intimate friend and schoolmate of his. This ac- 
count was obtained for Mr. Hoke by Rev. C. Cort. 

"A cavalry force of about two hundred men, under command of Captain Jones of the First New 
York Cavalry, hearing on Sunday, July 5th, of the great wagon train on its way from Gettysburg to 
\'irginia. advanced upon it by way of Mercersburg and intercepted it at Cearfoss Crossroads, nearly 
midway between Greencastle and Williamsport, Md. After a sharp skirmish with the guards, who 
were scattered somewhat thinly along the line, the wagons were turned into the road leading to Mer- 
cersburg. The train was cut out from Hayde's down to the farm formerly owned by David Zellars. 
The wagons cut ofT south of the crossroads were turned around in the barnyard of Mr. Zellars and 
hastily driven back to follow the other part of the captured train to Mercersburg. Great gallantry 
was displayed by Captain Jones and his brave men in this affair, as well as all other affairs he had 
with the rebels. One of his troopers rode as far as the Broad Fording road, but finding himself un- 
supported he was obliged to make his escape by turning off at that point. In this gallant affair about 
one hundred wagons — as many as this small body of cavalry could handle — with about 600 or 700 
wounded Confederates who were in the wagons were captured. The head of this train began to pass 
through Mercersburg about dusk and continued passing until late at night. It was hurried on through 
town towards the Gap for fear of an eifort to recapture it. At or near the Gap the head of the train 
met a large detachment of the Fourteenth Pennsylvania cavalry, under Colonel Pierce. Upon believ- 
ing themselves strong enough to protect themselves from capture, they returned to Mercersburg, where 
the wounded were taken from the wagons and placed in the Seminar)- and other buildings. In addi- 
tion to over one hundred wagons and feo or 700 prisoners captured there was one cannon." 

A'^^t' York Times, July 7th, has this despatch : "Col. Pierce made report to-day concerning the 
raid on the wagon train. Two hundred men under Capt. Jones of ist N. Y. Cav., and Penn., 12th 
under Lieut. Irvin captured the following: 100 wagons, 400 mules, 3 rifled 12-pounders, 100 horses 
and 648 prisoners. Sharp fighting and loss very hght." 

The Seminary building was turned into a hospital for the time being and was soon filled with 
wounded men. The Sunday school room of the Reformed church was also filled with wounded, and 
a number were placed upon the porch in front of the church. In the same way the basement of the 



160 mh MmnBbnxQ 

Methodist church was occupied. Several other smaller buildings throughout the town were made use 
of to afford as much comfort as possible to these unfortunates. 

On Monday morning, July 6th, all the wagons, infantry and those prisoners who were able to 
travel left for McConnellsburg. The field lying between the Seminary Lane and Fayette street, and 
extending from the Reformed church to the pike, presented a lively appearance. The field was literally 
filled with horses, mules, wagons, and all kinds of army baggage. The captured cannon had been 
mounted upon the culvert which crosses Seminary street in front of James O. McCune's house, and 
stood there as a battery commanding the whole field. 

On Monday, July 20th, a force of 1,300 infantry and six pieces of artillery arrived, commanded by 
Colonel Frick, from Schuylkill county. On Tuesday morning at 6 o'clock they left for Chambers- 
burg. 

On Monday, July 27th, the Company from Delaware left Mercersburg, late in the afternoon, for 
Loudon ; and on the same day a Company from Tioga county took its place. 

Thursday, August 6th, was observed by our people as a Thanksgiving day in view of the suc- 
cesses at Vicksburg, Port Hudson, Gettysburg and other places. Services were held in the Reformed 
church. All the ministers took part, Dr. Wolfe preaching the sermon. A cavalry company came to 
town on Tuesday, September 8th, and encamped in Ritchey's woods, west of the tollgate. 

A stray copy of the Journal, Friday, September 18, 1863, gives several local items : "The time for 
the arrival of the mails is now 8 o'clock. Letters and papers are received direct from the cities, i. e., on 
the same day they are mailed." * "The cavalry company which arrived in our midst last week is 
encamped in Ritchey's woods near town. The company belongs to the 22d Regiment six-months' Pa. 
Vol., and was principally recruited in Huntingdon County, Pa." * "The Theological Seminary. 
The exercises of this institution opened formally at 11 o'clock, on Tuesday, September 15th. The 
prospects for the usual number of students in attendance are good. By the late suspension of exer- 
cises, the affairs of the Institution have slightly been disarranged. In a short time all will move along 
as heretofore. The building has been thoroughly cleansed — no traces of its having been used as a 
hospital remaining." 

The ladies of Mercersburg gave a dinner on Thanksgiving day for the benefit of wounded soldiers. 
An oyster supper was given in the evening. Business was suspended and the dinner and supper were 
given in the old preparatory building. Over $200 were realized. 

The money thus raised was forwarded at once to the United States Christian Commission, Phila- 
delphia, by Mrs. Ellen J. McNaughton. 

We pass over the winter of 1864 with the mention of but one or two facts. 

A number of young men enlisted in the army from this vicinity about the 22d of January. About 
the last of January there were rumors that another raid would take place soon. May 27th news 
reached us that James Starliper and William Pittman had been wounded, and Cliarles Keyser killed, 
at one of the late engagements in Virginia — the battle of Cold Harbor. Mr. William Pittman had one 
limb amputated by the surgeons at the hospital in Alexandria. Under the above date the Ladies' 
Society received acknowledgment from the United States Christian Commission, for the sum of $650. 

On Friday, June loth, the ladies held a festival in behalf of the United States Christian Commis- 
sion. As a result of this and other efforts made at the same time, the sum of $1,000 was raised. 

On the 25th there was another cry of rebels coming, and on the 27th they were reported to be on 
this side of the river, but many persons had begun to doubt these rumors and were acting accord- 
ingly. In the Annals of the War, Gen. John McCausland himself says : "At Clearspring we left the 
National road and turned north on the Mercersburg road. We reached Mercersburg about dark, and 
stopped to feed our horses and to give time for the stragglers to come up. After this stop the march 
was continued all night notwithstanding the opposition made at every available point by a regiment of 
Federal cavalry." Near the corner where the Presbyterian parsonage now stands, the Battle of Mer- 
cersburg was opened. On the Confederate side there were 2,800 men under Generals McCausland 
and Johnston. 

The Union force was composed of twenty-two men of the Sixth United States Regular cavalry, 
under Lieut. H. T. McLean. The battle lasted probably an hour. 

The small company of twenty-two men under Liuetenant McLean, had come up from Carlisle 
barracks and was doing a little independent scouting along the border of our county, at the same 
time keeping General Couch, whose headquarters were at Chambersburg, well informed as to the move- 



ments of the enemy. On Friday, July 29th, Lieutenant McLean was kept well posted by his scouts of 
McCausland s approach, and by the tune the enemy's front had reached the Barnethisel farm about a 
mile from town, had collected his men at a point on the Corner road where the lime kilns now stand 
There the first resistance was made by our force. 

As the cavalry of the enemy approached from the direction of the "Corner," our men emerged from 
the vacant lot at the roadside and fired the first volley and then hastily withdrew from the road The 
surprise of the rebels was complete and they quickly wheeled and galloped back some distance. Soon 
another charge was made and again our men dashed out from their stronghold and repulsed the John- 
nies. This was repeated time and again with rapid firing on both sides, until a larger force of the 
enemy came up. when having decided probably that the resistance could not be very great, they made 
ready for a final charge. This time McLean and his men appeared as usual and after sending a hot 
volley of bullets into the front rank of the advancing foe, wheeled, and instead of falling to the side 
as before, galloped rapidly into town with the "rebs" in close pursuit. Before turning the corner at 
the Presbyterian church they wheeled and fired again. Then at the Diamond they made another stand. 
One more compliment was sent back at the bridge and still another at the Loudon road, into which they 
turned and rode away, hotly pursued by the rebel cavalrymen, who by this time had doubtless discov- 
ered that it was not so much the quantity as the quality of these men that they had to contend with. 

From that point all along the road to Chambersburg, the Sixth Regulars did harass McCausland 
that night at almost every available point, every now and then sending off a courier to General Couch 
at Chambersburg. 

Dr. Creigh, in noting down an account of the fight through town, says : "They reach the Dia- 
mond. Our few men receive them with a fire and retreat coolly down the street, the rebels after them 
and bullets flying. One struck near our house. They commenced passing through town about 5 
o'clock, p. m., and continued until 8. They had from four to six pieces of cannon. They broke into 
the stores and did all the damage they could, although most of our merchants had removed most of 
their best goods. They encamped on the Campbellstown road, from Ritchey's woods to William 
Hoke's. They entered many private dwellings and destroyed and stole much property. The heaviest 
losers among our merchants were Grove and Coyle, Dr. Smith, druggist, and Major North, tanner. 
They took watches out of the pockets (A Ritchey) and searched persons for money (John Rhodes). 
As far as we could learn they left between 11 and 12 p. m., on the Campbellstown road." 

It is said that McLean's men wounded about sixteen of the rebels in this fight, five or six of whom 
the surgeons declared would die. It was also said at the time that the rebels had buried one of their 
number in a field near the forks of the Loudon road. As General McCausland says, they stopped to 
"feed their horses and to give time for the stragglers to come up," but it must have been nearly mid- 
night before they got fully under way for Chambersburg. 

The greater part of the force camped north of town, but the whole length of Main street was the 
scene of great stir and confusion. Horses were standing all along at the edge of the pavement, munch- 
ing hay or perhaps something more substantial, while their masters lounged about near eating their eve- 
ning meal or smoking the pipe of war and making themselves comfortable generally. Other soldiers 
were more actively engaged in breaking open stores and helping themselves. 

For instance, while J. N. Brewer was standing quietly in front of his present residence, a high 
private rode up to the curb and proposed an exchange of boots. Mr. Brewer's reply to this was to the 
effect that such things were not at all customary in this country and furthermore the boots he was 
wearing were good ones and that he had no others. Then followed quite an angry flow of words from 
the horseman, ending with the intimation that Mr. Brewer would either have to surrender his boots 
or his life. Seeing that the man was drunk, Mr. Brewer decided to have no more words with him but, 
while the fellow was still making some very murderous threats, slowly edged his way towards the 
little alleyway at the side of his house. Just as the rebel raised his carbine in a threatening manner, 
Mr. Brewer stepped into the little passage and ran to the backyard. The drunken soldier peered in 
after him for some little time but finally concluded that it would not be safe to enter, and then rode 
away. 

Lieutenant McLean's running fight with the Confederates was one of the most exciting episodes 
in the history of our town and deserves to be put upon record more fully than we have done. It seems 
almost ridiculous to suppose that this little band could offer any material resistance to a force of 2,800 
trained and experienced soldiers, yet it should be remembered that our men, too, were not militia or 



'62 mh MntnBbm^ 



emergency men, but veteran cavalrymen of the regular army, well equipped and mounted upon trained 
cavalry horses from the government barracks at Carlisle. Considering the whole line of battle, ex- 
tending from Mercersburg to near Chambersburg, McLean successfully opposed McCausland's pas- 
sage and delayed him two or three hours. It was spoken of as "a sharp battle," and a citizen of our 
town, being in Virginia some time afterwards, heard it mentioned as "The Battle of Mercersburg." 

And so ended the third and last Confederate raid into our community. Instead of waging aggres- 
sive warfare, the rebels from this time until the end were engaged in a desperate defense of their capi- 
tal city, and the sad story of the Wilderness will tell the reader how stubbornly each foot of old Vir- 
ginia soil was contested. 

Less than nine months after McCausland's raid through Mercersburg, the Southern Confederacy 
found itself in a position that may well be described by a saying attributed to President Lincoln in 
speaking to Grant : "You intend to hold the animal by the feet while Sherman takes the skin off." In 
other words, Lee's army, the mainstay of the whole rebellion, had yielded and the war was at an end. 
The raids over our border, which had their beginning with Stuart in October, 1862, and culminated in 
the general invasion of Lee in June and July of the following summer, ended with McCausland and 
the burning of Chambersburg, in July, 1864. 

But even after McCausland, peace was not yet, for far into the winter reports and rumors of 
coming rebels were circulated far and wide, and magnified by the usual well known methods of exag- 
geration, so that the scenes of the summer before — the preparations for flight, the hasty departure of 
fanners with live stock and the shipping away or concealing of property, were repeated time and again. 

Thus in mid-August Dr. Creigh sends a large box of manuscript and valuable papers to Rev. West 
in Path Valley to be taken care of "during these trying times through which we are now passing." 

Many of our citizens visited Chambersburg during the summer to view the town as it lay in ruins. 
On August the 26th, the grand procession of horses began to move northward through town in conse- 
quence of a scare originating somewhere near the Maryland line. In a day or two it was all over and 
they were headed the other way. 

On the morning of September 24th, two regiments of United States troops passed through town 
on their way to the front. The two regiments numbered 1,700 men, and had with them twelve pieces 
of cannon. They were newly equipped and presented a fine appearance on the march. 

A few words about the last days of the rebellion. In the diary of Rev. H. Harbaugh we find 
the following entry : 

"April 10, 1865." 

"Eleven o'clock a. m. The dispatch was brought to my study giving notice of the surrender of Lee 
and that Sherman had again whipped Johnston. The bells were rung an hour from 12:30, on. The 
flag was raised on the Seminary and the students sang the "Star Spangled Banner" on the cupola." 

This is one incident, and probably the only one during the war, which the writer can speak of 
from his own personal recollection. He was there and remembers well how the students took turns at 
the old bell rope and rang until they were all tired out. 

Many long years have passed away, yet the Grand Army of the Republic is still with us, and the 
veterans gather around the campfire to rehearse their battles and to recount the trials and hardships of 
their former campaigns. But their mission now leads them in the walks of peace, and they have taken 
upon themselves the sacred duty of caring for the soldier's widow and the soldier's orphan — of smooth- 
ing the pathway for the trembling step of a comrade who has but little further to march, and laying 
tenderly to rest him who has ceased from battle forever. 

And what if it should come to pass, as we are taught to appreciate more and more the heroism 
and sacrifices of these men, that a simple yet durable shaft would be erected in the center of our beau- 
tiful cemetery, inscribed by our people to the memory of the L^nion soldiers who died fighting for the 
abolition of slavery and the suppression of rebellion? Linn Harbaugh 



?Bh J^prmiBBton nf iantii grljlpg grljaff, i. S. 

^^■H^ HE following reminiscences are taken from a special journal kept by Dr. Schaflf during sev- 
/-d eral weeks in July, 1863, and are given in the exact form in which he wrote them. Dr. Schaflf 
1^1. was at that time a professor in the Theological Seminary at Mercersburg, a town of twelve 
^^^ hundred inhabitants, in Southern Pennsylvania and within a few miles of the Manv-land line. 
It witnessed several Confederate raids and Lee's invasion. The battletields of Antietam and 
Gettysburg are forty miles away. Dr. Schafif was prominently identified with the Union cause, and nar- 
rowly escaped being taken prisoner by the Confederates for the public speeches he had made in its 
support. — D. S. S. 

Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, June 26, 1863. — This is the third time within less than a year that the 
horrible Civil war, now raging through this great and beautiful country, has been brought to our very 
doors and firesides. First, during the Rebel invasion of Maryland, in September, 1862, when forty 
thousand Rebel troops occupied Hagerstown, Maryland (eighteen miles away), and sent their pickets 
to within five miles of this place, and kept us in hourly fear of their advance into Pennsylvania, until 
they were defeated at Antietam. In October followed the bold and sudden Rebel raid of Stuart's cav- 
alry to Mercersburg and Chambersburg, in the rear of our immense amiy then lying along the upper 
Potomac. At that time they took about eight prominent citizens of this place prisoners to Richmond 
(released since, except Mr. P. A. Rice, editor of the Mercersburg Journal, who died in Richmond), 
and deprived the country of hundreds of horses. Now we have the most serious danger, an actual 
invasion of this whole southern region of Pennsylvania by a large portion of the Rebel army of Lee, 
formerly under command of the formidable Stonewall Jackson, now under that of General Ewell. The 
darkest hour of the American Republic and of the cause of the Union seems to be approaching. As the 
military authorities of the State and the United States have concluded to fortify Harrisburg and 
Pittsburg, and to leave Southern Pennsylvania to the tender mercies of the advancing enemy, we are 
now fairly, though reluctantly, in the Southern Confederacy, cut oiif from all newspapers and letters 
and other reliable information, and so isolated that there is no way of safe escape, even if horses and 
carriages could be had for the purpose. I will endeavor on this gloomy and rainy day to fix upon 
paper the principal events and impressions of the last few days. 

Sunday, June 14th. — While attending the funeral of old Mrs. McClelland, near Upton, whose 
husband died a few weeks ago, in his eighty-seventh year — having been bom in the year 1776, in the 
same month with the birth of the American Union— rumors reached us of the advance of the Rebels 
upon our force at Winchester, Va., and of the probable defeat of General Milroy. 

Monday, the 15th. — On my way to my morning lecture to complete the chapter on the conversion 
of the Gennanic races to Christianity, I heard that the advance of the Rebels had reached Hagers- 
town and taken possession of that town. Rumors accumulated during the day, and fugitive soldiers from 
Milroy's command at Winchester and at Martinsburg, most of them drunk, made it certain that our 
force in the valley of Virginia was sadly defeated, and that the Rebels were approaching the Potomac in 
strong force. On the same evening, their cavalry reached Greencastle and Chambersburg (nine and 
eighteen miles distant), endeavoring to capture Milroy's large baggage train, which fled before them 
in the greatest confusion, but reached Harrisburg in safety. 

Tuesday, the i6th. — We felt it necessary to suspend the exercises of the Seminary, partly because 
it was impossible to study under the growing excitement of a community stricken with the panic of 
invasion, partly because we have no right to retain the students when their State calls them to its de- 
fense. We invited them all to enlist at the next recruiting station. For what are seminaries, colleges, 

163 



164 mh MntnBbnvQ 

and churches if we have no country and home? We closed solemnly at noon with singing and the use 
of the Litany. 

Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, June i6th-i8th. — Passed under continued and growing ex- 
citement of conflicting rumors. Removal of goods by the merchants, of the horses by the farmers; 
hiding and burying of valuables, packing of books ; flight of the poor contraband negroes to the moun- 
tains from fear of being captured by the Rebels and dragged to the South. Arrests of suspicious per- 
sons by some individual unknown to us, yet claiming authority as a sort of marshal. One of these 
persons, from Loudon county, Virginia, was shut up for a while in the smoke-house of the Semi- 
nary, under my protest. I concluded to stay with my family at the post of danger, trusting in God till 
these calamities be passed. There is now no way of escape, and no horses and carriages are within 
reach. All communication cut off. 

These "rumors of war" are worse than "war" itself. I now understand better than ever before the 
difference of these two words as made by the Lord, Matt. xxiv. 6. The sight of the Rebels was an 
actual relief from painful anxiety. 

Friday, the 19th. — Actual arrival of the Rebel cavalrv', a part of General Jenkins' guerilla force, 
which occupied Chambersburg as the advance of the Rebel army. They were under command of 
Colonel Ferguson, about two hundred strong. They had passed through town the night previous on 
their way to McConnelsburg (nine miles away), and returned to-day after dinner with a drove of 
about two hundred head of cattle captured at McConnelsburg, and valued at $11,000, and about one 
hundred and twenty stolen horses of the best kind, and two or three negro boys. They rode into 
town with pointed pistols and drawn sabres, their captain (Crawford) loudly repeating: "We hear 
there is to be some resistance made. We do not wish to disturb private citizens ; but, if you wish a 
fight, you can have it to your heart's content. Come out and try." Long conversation with Colonel 
Ferguson. He said in substance : "I care nothing about the right of secession, but I believe in the 
right of revolution. You invaded our rights, and we would not be worthy the name of men if we had 
not the courage to defend them. A cowardly race is only fit for contempt. You call us Rebels; why 
do you not treat us as such ? Because you dare not and cannot. You live under a despotism ; in the 
South the Habeas Corpus is as sacredly guarded as ever. You had the army, the navy, superiority of 
numbers, means, and a government in full operation ; we had to create all that with great difficulty ; yet 
)'0U have not been able to subdue us, and can never do it. You will have to continue the war until you 
either must acknowledge our Confederacy, or until nobody is left to fight. For we will never yield. 
Good-by, I hope when we meet again we will meet in peace." The colonel spoke with great decision, 
yet courteously. The Rebels remained on their horses, and then rode on with their booty towards 
Hagerstown. The whole town turned out on the street to see them. I felt deeply humbled and 
ashamed in the name of the government. The Rebels were very poorly and miscellaneously dressed, 
and equipped with pistols, rifles, and sabres, hard-looking and full of fight, some noble, but also some 
stupid and semi-savage faces. Some fell asleep on their horses. The officers are quite intelligent and 
courteous, but full of hatred for the Yankees. 

Saturday, the 20th. — Appearance of about eighty of Milroy's cavalry, who had made their escape 
from Winchester in charge of the baggage-train, and returned from Harrisburg under Captain Boyd, 
of Philadelphia. They were received with great rejoicing by the community, took breakfast, fed their 
horses, and then divided into two parties in pursuit of some Rebels, but all in vain. They then went 
to Shippensburg, I believe, and left us without protection. 

Sunday, the 21st. — Received mail for the first time during a week, in consequence of the tempo- 
rary withdrawal of the Rebel advance from Chambersburg. But on Monday all changed again for 
the worse. 

Monday and Tuesday, 22d, 23d. — Squads of Rebel cavalry stealing horses and cattle from the de- 
fenseless community. No star of hope from our army or the State government. Harrisburg in con- 
fusion. The authorities concluded to fortify Harrisburg and Pittsburgh, and to leave all Southern 
Pennsylvania exposed to plunder and devastation, instead of defending the line and disputing every 
inch of ground. No forces of any account this side of Harrisburg, and the Rebels pouring into the 
State with infantry and artillery. The government seems paralyzed for the moment. We fairly, 
though reluctantly, belong to the Southern Confederacy, and are completely isolated. The majority of 
the students have gradually disappeared, mostly on foot. Mr. Reily left on Saturday. Dr. Wolf 
(Professor in the Theological Seminary) remains, but his wife is in Lancaster. 



©Uk MitmBbntQ '65 



Wednesday, the 24th. — An eventful day, never to be forgotten. As we sat down to dinner the 
children ran in with the report, "The Rebels are coming, the Rebels are coming!" The advance pickets 
had already occupied the lane and dismounted before the gate of the Seminary. In a few minutes the 
drum and fife announced the arrival of a whole brigade of seven regiments of infantry, most of them 
incomplete — one only two hundred strong — with a large force of cavalry and six pieces of artillery, 
nearly all with the mark "U. S.," and wagons captured from Milroy and in other engagements. Their 
muskets, too, were in part captured from us at the surrender of Harper's Ferry in October last, and had 
the mark of "Springfield." The brigade was commanded by General Stewart, of Baltimore, a grad- 
uate of West Point (not to be confounded with the famous cavalry Stuart, who made the raid to 
Mercersburg and Chambersburg last October). The major of the brigade, Mr. Goldsborough, from 
Baltimore, acts as marshal and rode up to the Seminary. He is distantly related to my wife. I had 
some conversation with him, as with many other officers and privates. This brigade belongs to the late 
Stonewall Jackson's, now to Ewell's command, and has been in fifteen battles, as they say. They are 
evidently among the best troops of the South, and flushed with victory. They made a most motley 
appearance, roughly dressed, yet better than during their Maryland campaign last fall; all provided 
with shoes, and to a great extent with fresh and splendid horses, and with United States equipments. 
Uncle Sam has to supply both armies. They seem to be accustomed to every hardship and in ex- 
cellent fighting condition. The whole force was estimated at from three thousand to five thousand 
men. General Stewart and stafif called a few of the remaining leading citizens together and had a 
proclamation of Lee read, dated June 21st, to the effect that the advancing army should take supplies 
and pay in Confederate money, or give a receipt, but not violate private property. They demanded 
that all the stores be opened. Some of them were almost stripped of the |fmiaining goods, for which 
payment was made in Confederate money. They emptied Mr. Fitzgerald's cellar of sugar, molas- 
ses, hams, etc., and enjoyed the candies, nuts, cigars, etc., at Mr. Shannon's. Towards evening they 
proceeded towards McConnelsburg, but left a strong guard in town. They hurt no person, and upon 
the whole we had to feel thankful that they behaved no worse. 

Thursday, the 25th — Saturday, the 27th. — The town was occupied by an independent guerilla band 
of cavalry, who steal horses, cattle, sheep, store goods, negroes, and whatever else they can make use 
of, without ceremony, and in evident violation of Lee's proclamation read yesterday. They are about 
fifty or eighty in number, and are encamped on a farm about a mile from town. They are mostly Alary- 
landers and Virginians, and look brave, defiant, and bold. On Thursday evening their captain, with a 
red and bloated face, threatened at the Mansion House (the chief hotel) to lay the town in ashes as 
soon as the first gun should be fired on one of his men. He had heard that there were firearms in town, 
and that resistance was threatened. He gave us fair warning that the least attempt to disturb them 
would be our ruin. We assured him that we knew nothing of such intention, that it was unjust to 
hold a peaceful community responsible for the unguarded remarks of a few individuals, that we were 
non-combatants and left the fighting to our army and the militia, which was called out, and would in 
due time meet them in open combat. They burned the barn of a farmer in the country who was re- 
ported to have fired a gun, and robbed his house of all valuables. On Friday this guerilla band came 
to town on a regular slave-hunt, which presented the worst spectacle I ever saw in this war. They 
proclaimed, first, that they would burn down every house which harbored a fugitive slave, and did 
not deliver him up within' twenty minutes. And then commenced the search upon all the houses on 
which suspicion rested. It was a rainy afternoon. They succeeded in capturing several contrabands, 
among them a woman with two little children. A most pitiful sight, sufficient to settle the slavery 
question for every humane mind. 

Saturday, the 27th.— Early in the morning the guerilla band returned from their camping-ground 
and, drove their booty, horses,' cattle, about five hundred sheep, and two wagons full of store goods, 
with twenty-one negroes, through town and towards Greencastle or Hagerstown. It was a sight as sad 
and mournful as the slave-hunt of yesterday. They claimed all these negroes as Virginian slaves, 
but I was positively assured that two or three were born and raised in this neighborhood. One, Sam 
Brooks, split many' a cord of wood for me. There were among them women and young children, sit- 
ting with sad countenances on the stolen store boxes. I asked one of the riders guarding the wagons : 
"Do you not feel bad and mean in such an occupation?" He boldly replied that "he felt very com- 
fortable. Thev were only reclaiming their property which we had stolen and harbored." Mrs. Mc- 
Fariand, a Presbyterian woman, who had about th'ree hundred sheep taken by the guerillas, said bold- 
ly to one : "So the Southern chivalry have come down to sheep-stealing. I want you to know that we 



166 mh MmtVBbnxQ 

regard sheep thieves the meanest of fellows. I am too proud to ask any of them back, but if I were 
a man I would shoot you with a pistol." The Rebel offered her his pistol, upon which she asked him 
to give it to her boy, standing close by her, Among the goods stolen was the hardware of Mr. Shirts, 
which they found concealed in a barn about a mile from town. They allowed him to take his papers 
out of one box, and offered to return the goods for $1,200 good federal money, remarking that they 
were worth to them $5,000, as hardware was very scarce in Virginia. He let them have all, and took 
his loss very philosophically. Mr. McKinstry estimates his loss in silks and shawls and other dry- 
goods, which the guerillas discovered in a hiding-place in the country, at $3,000. The worst feature 
is that there are men in this community who will betray their own neighbors! In the Gap (half a mile 
from President Buchanan's birthplace) they took from Mrs. Unger a large number of whiskey-barrels, 
and impressed teams to haul them off. They say they will bring $40 per gallon in the South. I pity 
Mrs. Unger, but am glad the whiskey is gone; would be glad if some one had taken an axe and knocked 
the barrels to pieces. From a man by the name of Patterson, in the Cove, they took, it is said, $5,000 
worth of goods, and broke all his chinaware. From Mr. Johnson they took all the meat from the 
smoke-house. Other persons suffered more or less heavily. I expect these guerillas will not rest until 
they have stripped the country and taken all the contraband negroes who are still in the neighborhood, 
fleeing about like deer. My family is kept in constant danger, on account of poor old Eliza, our serv- 
ant, and her little boy, who hide in the grain-fields during the day, and return under cover of the 
night to get something to eat. Her daughter Jane, with her two children, were captured and taken 
back to Virginia. Her pretended master. Dr. Hammel, from Martinsburg, was after her, but the guer- 
illas would not let him have her, claiming the booty for themselves. I saw him walk after her with 
the party. 

These guerillas are far worse than the regular army, who behaved in an orderly and decent way, 
considering their mission. One of the guerillas said to me, "We are independent, and come and go 
where and when we please." It is to the credit of our government that it does not tolerate such out- 
laws. 

Already the scarcity of food is beginning to be felt. No fresh meat to be had ; scarcely any flour 
or groceries; no wood. The harvest is ripe for cutting, but no one to cut it. And who is to eat it? 
The loss to the farmers in hay and grain which will rot on the fields is incalculable. This evening (Sat- 
urday the 27th) I hear from a drover that the Rebel army has been passing all day from Hagerstown 
to Chambersburg in great force. Perhaps their advance-guard is in Harrisburg by this time, for we 
can hear of no sufficient force this side of Harrisburg to check them. Hooker is said to be behind them 
in Frederick, Md. 

Sunday, the 28th. — Thanks be to God we had a comparatively quiet Sunday. Dr. Creigh 
preached in our church. Small congregation, few country people, all on foot. In the evening a num- 
ber of Rebels rode through town to remind us of their presence. We see campfires in the Gap (three 
miles off). 

Monday, the 29th. — Imboden's brigade encamped between here and the Gap. Infantry, artillery, 
and cavalry. They came from Western Virginia, Cumberland, and Hancock. They clean out all the 
surrotmding farm houses. They have discovered most of the hiding places of the horses in the moun- 
tains and secured to-day at least three hundred horses. 

Tuesday, the 30th. — This morning General Imboden, with staff, rode to town and made a requisi- 
tion upon this small place of five thousand pounds of bacon, thirty barrels of flour, shoes, hats, etc., 
to be furnished by eleven o'clock; if not complied with, his soldiers will be quartered upon the citizens. 
If they go on this way for a week or two we will have nothing to eat ourselves. They say as long as 
Yankees have something, they will have something. General Imboden, who is a large, commanding, 
and handsome officer, said within my hearing, "You have only a little taste of what you have done to 
our people in the South. Your army destroyed all the fences, burnt towns, turned poor women out 
of house and home, broke pianos, furniture, old family pictures, and committed every act of vandalism. 
I thank God that the hour has come when this war will be fought out on Pennsylvania soil." This 
is the general storj'. Every one has his tale of outrage committed by our soldiers upon their homes 
and friends in Virginia and elsewhere. Some of our soldiers admit it, and our own newspaper reports 
unfortunately confirm it. If this charge is true, I must confess we deserve punishment in the North. 
The raid of Montgomery in South Carolina, the destruction of Jacksonville, in Florida, of Jackson, in 
Mississippi, and the devastation of all Eastern Virginia, by our troops are sad facts. 



A large part of the provision demanded was given. Imboden made no payment, but gave a sort 
of receipt which nobody will respect. 

In the afternoon Imboden's brigade broke up their camp a little beyond the tollgate, and marched 
through town on the way to Greencastle. They numbered in all only about eleven hundred men, in- 
cluding three hundred cavalry, six pieces of cannon, fifty wagons, mostly marked "U. S.," and a large 
number of stolen horses from the neighborhood. Late in the evening another troop passed through 
with one hundred horses. Imboden remarked to a citizen in town, that if he had the power he would 
burn every town and lay waste every farm in Pennsylvania. He told Mrs. Skinner, who wanted her 
horses back, that his mother had been robbed of everything by Yankee soldiers, and was now begging 
her bread. Mrs. Skinner replied, "A much more honorable occupation than the one her son is now en- 
gaged in ; you are stealing it." 

Wednesday, July ist. — We hoped to be delivered from the Rebels for awhile, but after dinner a 
lawless band of guerillas rode to town stealing negroes and breaking into Fitzgerald's and Shannon's 
stores on the Diamond, taking what they wanted and wantonly destroying a good deal. This was the 
boldest and most impudent highway robbery I ever saw. Such acts I should have thought impossible 
in America after our boast of superior civilization and Christianity in this nineteenth century. Judge 
Carson asked one of these guerillas whether they took free negroes, to which the ruffian replied : "Yes, 
and we will take you, too, if you do not shut up !" How long shall this lawless tyranny last ? But 
God rules, and rules justly. 

To-day I saw three Richmond papers, the last of June, 24th, half sheets, shabby and mean, full 
of infonnation from Northern papers of the Rebel invasion of Maryland and Pennsylvania, and full 
of hatred and bitterness for the North, urging their Southern army on to unmitigated plunder and 
merciless retaliation. 

Dr. Seibert walked from Chambersburg. So did Mr. Stine. They say that terrible outrages are 
committed by the soldiers on private citizens. One was shot to get his money, another was stripped 
naked and then allowed to run. . . . Hats are stolen off the head in the street and replaced by 
Rebel hats. Dr. Schneck, walking to his lots, just out of Chambersburg, was asked for the time by 
a soldier. He pulled out his old gold watch, inherited from father and grandfather. The Rebel instant- 
ly pointed his bayonet at the Doctor's breast and said, "Your watch is mine."' Another soldier, appar- 
ently coming to his relief, touched his pocket, pointing his bayonet from behind, and forced him to give 
up his pocket-book with $57, all he had. This comes from Dr. Schneck himself, through Dr. Seibert. 
A similar case occurred this afternoon. I am told that one of these lawless guerillas seeing a watch- 
chain on one of Dr. Kimball's boarders, who stood on the pavement, rode up to him and tore the 
watch from his vest pocket. 

In the evening and during the night this party drove all the remaining cows away from the 
neighborhood towards the Potomac. 

This reminds one of the worst times of the Dark Ages (the Faustrecht), where might was right, 
and right had no might (v.'o die Macht das Recht ist itiid das Rccht keinc Macht hat). 

Thursday, July 2d. — Was comparatively quiet. Miss Bertha Falk, who has been with us for four 
weeks, left this morning for Hagerstown with Dr. Seibert, on foot, this being the only kind of loco- 
motion now left to this neighborhood. I accompanied them as far as Dr. Hiester's (three miles). I 
hope they may arrive safely in Hagerstown. 

Friday, July 3d. — At eight o'clock the first united prayer-meeting in the Methodist Church, called 
forth by the peculiar condition of the country. Dr Wolf presided. Dr. Creigh, Rev. Mr. Agnew, 
Rev. Is. Brown. Judge Carson, and myself offered short prayers. After dinner great excitement 
in town. Two Rebel cavalry officers were waiting on their horses at the curbstone of the Mansion 
House to have their canteens filled with whiskey; a shot was heard. A straggling Union soldier 
hiding behind a tree had taken such good aim that the bullet passed through one horse's head, and 
pierced the Rebel on the other horse through the heart. The poor fellow fell back, died in a few 
minutes, and was hastily buried in his clothes, spur, and equipments at the edge of town. His money, 
$33 in Greenbacks, was handed to his companion for his wife and children. His companion was ar- 
rested, and his dead horse pulled by the living one to the edge of town, and covered with a few 
inches of earth. A third member of the party had halted at the head of the street, and after the 
shot galloped off to tell the tale, so that if the Rebels are in force in the neighborhood they may 
eke out revenge and bum the town. 



168 ®Ui iim^rfiburs 



Saturday, July 4th. — Prayer-meeting in the morning. Heavy rain all day. The gloomiest Fourth 
of July which this country ever saw. Perhaps the battle is now raging which may decide the fate 
of the Union. Or something equally important may take place. 

Boan dispatched to McConnelsburg, asking Colonel Pierce for a guard to protect us against the 
ravages of guerillas. 

Sunday, July 5th. — Morning service was interrupted by Mr. Hoke bringing a message to Rev. 
Mr. Brown to be announced forthwith, viz., that about two hundred of our cavalry would be here at 
noon from McConnelsburg, requiring rations for men and horses. They arrived, Captain Jones, of 
New York, commanding a New York and Pennsylvania company, a great many of them Germans, 
well mounted, part of Milroy's force which had made their escape from Winchester, and have spent 
their time since in Bloody Run and McConnelsburg. They came in consequence of the request al- 
luded to above. Captain Jones is a fine officer. The citizens provided for them most liberally. They 
then proceeded on the Hagerstown road. At Cunningham's tavern, about eleven miles from here, 
they encountered an immense train of ambulances with wounded rebels on their retreat to Williams- 
port and Virginia. The train was several miles long, and attested the fact of a very bloody battle 
at Gettysburg. Our cavalry pitched right into the middle of the train, captured three pieces of 
artillery, about one hundred wagons and three buggies, with four hundred mules, one hundred horses 
and 747 prisoners, mostly wounded. In the evening we heard of their capture and approach. The 
whole town turned out to see the sight. After dark they began to arrive and pass through town. A 
most exciting spectacle never to be forgotten ! The wounded Rebels brought the tale of the terrible 
battle fought around Gettysburg on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday last (July 3d). They left the 
battlefield on Saturday, the 4th of July, when the battle was still going on, though with less violence. 

The last of the train passed through town towards the Gap after eleven o'clock at night. I then 
went to bed. But I was hardly undressed, when Mr. Murray and Beecher Wolf rang the bell 
and asked me whether the Seminary could be had for the temporary occupation of those prisoners 
who were too severely wounded or exhausted to be transported further that night. I gave my con- 
sent most cheerfully, subject to the approval of Dr. Wolf. I got up and assisted in unloading and 
accommodating the wounded prisoners. Several citizens assisted. I thought we would have to pro- 
vide for a few dozen. But behold the whole train of ambulances was ordered back, and about six 
hundred were unloaded on the Seminary, the rest in the basement of the Methodist Church, and in 
Dr. King's bam. The whole night was consumed in the process. 

Monday, July 6th.— The Seminary is now fairly turned into a military hospital. A novel chap- 
ter in its histor)% and one full of sad interest. The cavalry force and two regiments of infantry. 
Colonel Pierce commanding, and acting brigadier-general in the absence of Milroy, arrived for the 
protection of the captured prisoners, and drained the town of available provisions. The prisoners 
were paroled, those who could walk were marched off to McConnelsburg, together with all the am- 
bulances, baggage wagons, horses, and mules. The rest, between two and three hundred, were left 
upon our shoulders. The Colonel appointed Captain IMcCulloch provost-marshal, who would not serve, 
and Dr. Elliott, acting medical director, entrusted the medical care to two Rebel surgeons, who turned 
out to be worthless, and skedaddled without paying any attention to their own wounded. 

In the meantime charity and curiosity were busy in providing for the prisoners an abundance of 
food and attention, which seemed to fill them with delight and gratitude. One colonel from North 
Carolina remarked : "Your kindness makes it almost a luxury to be a prisoner here." This speaks well 
for this place, which has suffered such heavy losses during the last few weeks from Rebel guerillas, 
and now turns round without a murmur to nurse their sick and wounded. 

But we know well enough that we could not rely upon private exertions for anv length of time, 
and needed a proper hospital organization. Some of the leading citizens dispatched a letter to Major- 
General Couch, at Harrisburg, and one to Colonel Pierce, at Loudon, requesting him to make proper 
arrangements for the military and medical care of his own prisoners left in our midst. This letter 
had a desired effect. 

Tuesday, July 7th. — the filth and foul odors accumulated in the Seminary within the last day 
and night, already almost beyond endurance. Contagious disease looms up before us. We succeed in 
gettmg the building swept, the wounds dressed, and the animal wants attended to. Acted the nurse 
as well as I could in distributing food all day. In the afternoon fortunately Colonel Pierce sent 
Lieutenant Watson and Dr. Elliott to make some arrangements and to appoint persons with proper 



authority, as requested. So we hope to get the hospital properly organized bye and bye. It is cer- 
tainly the duty of Colonel Pierce to take care of his own prisoners. But these poor fellows are provi- 
dentially thrown upon us, and we must do the best we can. 

I spent a good deal of time with the prisoners, privates and officers. The privates, generally 
speaking, look most wretched — ragged, torn, bruised, mutilated, dirty. Their dress represents every 
style and color, butternut cloth, half uniforms, no uniforms, full of mud from the heavy rains. 
Many of them are miserably ignorant and unable to read or write. They represent almost all the 
Southern States, including Maryland, and belong to Hill's and Longstreet's divisions. They were 
wounded in the Gettysburg battles and agree that they were among the bloodiest, if not the bloodiest, 
in the war, and that the Yankees never fought better. Some of them are intelligent, simple-hearted, 
trustful, confiding, susceptible of religious impressions. All seemed to be well pleased and thankful 
for all the kind attentions shown by men and women of the place and the surrounding country. 
Many admit that the South was too hasty in seceding, and lost more than she could gain. Among 
the officers are a Colonel Leventhorpe of the Eleventh North Carolina Infantry, an Englishman by 
birth, and formerly an English captain — a communicant member of the Episcopal church, very intelli- 
gent, courteous, and hopeful of Confederate success; a Lieutenant Hand, Company A, Eleventh 
North Carolina Infantry; Captain Archer (brother of General Archer), chief of his staff; Capt. G. 
A. Williams, assistant adjutant-general; Capt. C. E. Chambers, Thirteenth Alabama; Capt. J. H. Buch- 
anon. Second Mississippi, and other officers of Maryland, Virginia, Tennessee and Mississippi, all in- 
telligent, but unanimous in intense hostility to the North, and determined to fight to the last man. 
An excellent chaplain, Mr. Frierson, of Mississippi, Presbyterian. They all agree with other Rebels 
in declaring McClellan to be the best general on the Federal side. Detailed description of the Gettys- 
burg fight, discussion about the national question and war. All sick of the war, but determined to 
fight it out. They say there never was harder fighting in the world than at Gettysburg. 

Wednesday, July 8th. — Dr. Negley, appointed Medical Superintendent, and Mr. Hornbaker, ap- 
pointed Provost-Marshal, concluded, with the consent of the people down town, to move all the sick 
of the town up to the Seminary, and to throw the whole burden and offence of this trouble upon the 
Seminary circle. I protested, with Dr. Wolf, against it as well as I could, but in vain. So the 
building is taken possession of by military force, and the students who remain will be tumed out. 
My conscience is clear; I did my best to save the private rooms and the furniture. 

Towards noon, under a heavy rain, a great many farmers from Clear Spring and St. Paul's 
Church, and the Maryland line, passed through this town with their horses and cattle, in flight from 
the retreating Rebel army, which is said to be passing towards the river and take all horses and cattle 
on the way, even in Maryland. Portions of them may come here. The Potomac must be impassable 
now in consequence of the heavy rains of the last days, and especially last night. Hope our anny will 
be able to prevent their escape, and finish up this terrible war as far as Lee's army is concerned. If 
our militia now would move up from Harrisburg they could materially assist Meade in capturing the 
Rebel force, which must have lost at least 25,000 killed, wounded, and missing. What a sudden change 
in the aspect of affairs! A few days ago the enemy, so haughty, defiant, and confident, and now 
broken down, disappointed, foiled, and retreating! Man proposes, God disposes. 

Most exaggerated reports are afloat of the capture of 25,000 Rebels and 118 pieces of cannon, 
which now turns out to be one of the many lies which this war is breeding in such superabundance. 
Lee seems to be able to retreat in order, but the height of the river at present seems to be his main 
difficulty. 

Thursday, July 9th. — Another day of excitement. About 2,000 Union troops, Pennsylvania militia, 
from Mt. Union, passed through towards Clearspring. Many Rebel ambulances captured on Sun- 
day were returned, with mules, to carry away all the wounded Rebels fit for transportation. About 150 
left. Prisoners were sent to Mt. Union to be transported to Harrisburg on the Central Pennsylvania 
railroad. Many left with evident regret, and deeply thankful for the kind treatment they had received 
from this community. Fifty remained, nearly all in the Seminary. 

Natural kindness. Christian charity, and curiosity combined to pay every attention to the Rebel 
prisoners. The Seminary continues to be the center of attraction and the resort of all sorts of peo- 
ple in the neighborhood. One poor fellow from Georgia suffers intensely from his wound, and is 
expected to die of lockjaw to-night. 

A strong militia guard from Chester county was left here to watch the prisoners. They pitched 



170 (§lh MnnvBhrn^ 

their tents in the Seminary yard, and we prevailed on them to move behind the German Reformed 
Church, where they are now encamped. 

The news arrived to-night of the fall of Vicksburg on the 4th of July. A mortal blow to the Con- 
federacy — the Mississippi in our hands ; also more detailed accounts of the terrible three days' battle 
in Gettysburg, from July ist-3d. It seems on Wednesday we were repulsed and driven out of Gettys- 
burg to the strong position on Cemetery Hill. On Thursday both parties held their own, with a lit- 
tle advantage on "our side. On Friday, the 3d, the Rebels were decidedly repulsed and forced to re- 
treat, leaving their dead and wounded in our hands. 

Lee is said to be in Hagerstown, and another bloody conflict is expected there. The Potomac 
has been unfordable for several days. 

Friday, July loth. — This morning we were treated to the luxury of a mail, the first for the last 
three weeks. Letters and papers kept me busy reading nearly all day. The rest was spent with the 
Rebel officers reading to them and conversing with them, etc. The prospects of the Union are brighten- 
ing in every direction. 

Saturday, July nth. — Rev. Frierson, the Rebel chaplain, took supper with me, and had a long 
conversation. He studied under the late Dr. Thornwell in South Carolina, can hope for no reunion on 
any terms, but admits the severity of the blow in the repulse of Gettysburg and the fall of Vicksburg. 
He says Lee's army was never as well clad, fed, and in as high spirits and good condition as when 
they invaded Pennsylvania. 

Sundav, July 12th. — Dr. Wolf preached in our church a Thanksgiving sermon. I preached in the 
Seminary chapel in the afternoon, on prayer, to as many of the wounded soldiers as could be moved. 
Several of our own soldiers were in, together with citizens and students. The soldiers were quite at- 
tentive. Rev. Mr. Frierson, the Rebel chaplain, closed with a good prayer. 

At night I was to preach again in the church. But I prevailed on Chaplain Colburn to preach, 
who returned from Clearspring with the New York and Pennsylvania militia force, which passed 
through here on Saturday and were relieved by General Kelley's force coming down. 

Monday. July 13th. — the whole of what remains of General Milroy's force, about two or three 
thousand infantry and cavalry, passed through here, under command of Colonel Pierce, from Loudon 
towards Greencastle. They remained in town about two hours, and caused considerable stir. We are 
still without positive information about the army movements, but hear more or less cannonading all 
day. The Rebel advance are at eleven miles from here. The river is still unfordable, and it is rain- 
ing again. 

Tuesday, July 14th. — This evening persons from Williamsport (twenty miles ofif) brought the 
news that the Rebel army recrossed the Potomac yesterday and last night, and is once more safely on 
the sacred soil of Virginia, without leaving a horse or wagon behind, after effectually deceiving our 
army by various feint movements on Sunday and Monday. A sad disappointment for all who looked 
for nothing less than the complete destruction or capture of the Rebel invaders in their own trap. 
But our army retreated from the Peninsula and twice recrossed the Rappahannock in the face of the 
enemy, so that it seems to be almost an impossibility to bag a big army. Meade is reported to have 
followed Lee closely over the river. 

Sad news to-night of a fearful riot in New York City to resist the draft. The New York militia 
company, stationed here as a guard, was ordered to leave to-night to assist in quelling the rebellion at 
home. 

The remainder of the week passed off without special excitement. The newspapers brought us 
the particulars of Gettysburg battles, of Lee's retreat to Virginia, of the fall of Vicksburg, also the 
surrender of Port Hudson, and the new attack on Charleston, Morris Island being in our hands. The 
rebellion seems to receive blow upon blow just after it had lifted its head most boldly and confidently. 

I studied Church History. Commenced an essay on the American Sabbath, attended to the 
wounded. On Sunday afternoon I heard Mr. Frierson, on Affliction, in the Seminary hospice, and as- 
sisted him. 

Tuesday, July 21st. — Two regiments of Pennsylvania's infantry (Colonel Frick) and six pieces 
of New York artillery, which were encamped near the town in the woods, left early this morning for 
Chambersburg on their return home. 

Six ambulances were sent here to take away nearly all the officers from the Rebel prisoners, al- 
though some of them are hardly fit for removal. It was quite a sad scene. I had become attached to 









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some of them, especially Colonel Leventhrope, a very intelligent, religious gentleman. He was very 
fond of reading sermons and history, and seemed quite grateful for our attentions. When his tall 
form, with a broken arm and pale face, supported by Chaplain Frierson, walked down the steps and 
into the ambulance I felt quite badly. Captains Chambers, Betts, Archer, Williams, Buchanan, etc., 
also left for Chambersburg. Mrs. Williams and Miss Archer, together with some physicians, had 
come from Baltimore to nurse their husband, brother, and friends. 

( Note.— General Imboden, in his "Retreat From Gettysburg," says: "Our supply of provisions 
consisted of a few wagon-loads of flour in my own brigand train, a small lot of fine fat cattle which 
I had collected in Pennsylvania on my way to Gettysburg, and some sugar and coffee procured in the 
same way at Mercersburg.") 

mprrpraburg anh Eibbg Prtann 

"Parole of Honor, 

"C. S. Prison, "Richmond, Nov. 30th, 1862. 

"In consideration of my release for thirty (30) days upon this my parole of honor, for the pur- 
pose of proceeding to Washington in U. S. in order to efifect an Exchange between Doctor Jackson 
and myself. I do solemnly swear that during the thirty (30) days I will not take up arms, against the 
Confederate States of America and that I will confine myself strictly to the object of my mission, and 
if failing in that, that I will return at the Expiration of thirty (30) days, from this date and place my- 
self in the Custody of the Confederate authorities. 

(Signed) "George G. Rupley. 
"Witness, Erastus W. Ross, Clerk of C. S. Mil. Prison." 

"Nov. 30th, 1862. 

Released on this parole, Mr. Rupley reached Washington to learn that the name of Dr. Jackson 
could not be found on the rolls of the Federal prisons (Official Records, War of the Rebellion, Series 
2, Vol. 5). 

Pending a search for this man he returned home where he remained until a few days before the 
expiration of his parole, when he reported at Washington to Colonel Hoffman, Commissary General 
of Prisoners, fully expecting to be sent back to the Libby. 

Meanwhile the Agent for Exchange at Fort Monroe, Colonel Ludlow, succeeded in arranging a 
substitute satisfactory to the Confederate Commissioner, Mr. Ould, and Mr. Rupley was released from 
his obligation. 

He had with him, however, some money which the Mercersburg Council had entrusted to him 
for the use of its citizens still in prison. This matter was laid before the Commission and Mr. Ould 
consented to forward the money to the prisoners. 

By way of explanation to this rather unusual proceeding, it must be understood that when Mr. 
Rupley was captured he had with him a considerable sum of money. This he succeeded in keeping 
from the knowledge of the Confederates. He was fortunate to escape the search on entering the 
Libby and was again fortunate to find among the guards one who had spent part of his youth in Mer- 
cersburg, and was disposed to treat the prisoners as humanely as he was allowed. Through the good 
offices of this guard, the money from time to time purchased food and a few other comforts. The first 
blanket bought Mr. Rupley cut, giving half to Mr. Winger. A second one, secured shortly after, was 
divided between Mr. Shaffer and Mr. Rice. 

The money was doled out in small sums to the various prisoners, whenever they had opportunity 
to spend it ; and it is to the credit of these men, most of them strangers, that it can be said that every- 
one who survived his prison life repaid his loan. 

The money appropriated by the Council reached the prison as the following receipts show : 

"Office Commissary General of Prisoners. 

"Washington, D. C, Feb. 7, 1863. 

"Geo. G. Rupley : "Mercersburg, Franklin Co., Pa. 

"Sir — I enclose hereunto a receipt for the money, $75, forwarded by you on the 31st Dec, 1862, 



^72 (§Ui MttmBbntQ 

to Col. Ludlow, Agt. for Ex. of Prisoners at Fort Monroe, for the benefit of citizen prisoners, held at 
Richmond, Va. The $20 Confederate note sent to Mr. Shaffer was pronounced to be counterfeit and is 
herewith returned. Respt. Yours, 

"W. Hoffman, Com. Gen. Pris." 

"C. S. Military Prison. "Richmond, Va., Jan. 14, 1863. 

"Received of Mr. Robert Ould through Capt. Turner, the sum of seventy-five dollars ($75) in U. 
S. Treasury notes. Said money appropriated by the Borough Council of Mercersburg, Pa., for benefit 
of the undersigned and other citizen from Pa. now in prison here. 

(Signed) "P. A. Rice. 

"Citizen Prisoner Penna." 

The receipt from the prison is written on a half page of blue paper, the signature in a different 
hand from the body of the note. A ven,' fair act apparently — but the prisoners never saw either money 
or receipt. 



^nmt WitmxnmmttB 



An lE-xtrart 3fram an Arttrlp btj tl^r ffiatt 3. SIl^DmiiaDn Parkpr 
A Natinp of iMrrrtroburg — Slater a SrHiiirntnf Altnona. J^ublialjpJi in an AUnnna Paper nt 1900 

"I cannot close without saying something in particular about that grand scholar and noble patriot, 
Dr. Schaff. When Company C, of our town, left for Camp Curtin we had to start very early in the 
morning and drive ten miles to Greencastle (we did not have the railroad to our place then). The 
Doctor went with us, riding his little pony; sometimes he would be at the head of the teams, then at 
the rear, and would always have something cheering to say as he passed any of us. 

"At the battle of Antietam he and several other men from our home were there during the fight. 
I can't just remember where he met us after we crossed the mountain, but he was with us on our march 
to the front and went with us as far as citizens were allowed to go. As we turned ofif the road to take 
our position in line of battle, he took hold of Will McKinstry's hand and said : 'Good-bye, Billy ; 
God bless you 1 I will tell your mother on you.' He meant to say he would tell her he saw him, but in 
the confusion he got a little mixed. He went back and forth over the field attending to the wants 
of the wounded and dying. With all his dignity he was not without humor. 

"As the crowd was going over the field. Rev. James Bruce, of the United Presbyterian Church of 
Mercersburg, climbed into an orchard and got some apples. He handed some of them to the Doctor. 
'No sir,' he said; 'I never eat stolen fruit,' and started, saying: 'On to Richmond, men!' 

"During the Gettysburg campaign the Rebels had us cut off from the outside world for quite a 
while. The Doctor said he was opposed to lying, but if he could make the Rebels believe some things 
that were not true he would do so. When the Rebel army retreated from Gettysburg part of their 
wagon train, loaded with the wounded, was captured a few miles south of our place and brought there. 
He turned the Seminary over to the government to be used as a hospital. Some of these wounded re- 
mained their quite a while. I heard him preach to them one Sabbath. He did not refer to the war 
in his discourse, but he prayed for the success of our cause." 



0^m^ HE Army of the Potomac, under command of General McCIellan, having met with defeat 
/-g on the Peninsula in July, 1862, the President was authorized to issue a call for 100,000 
1 f L men to increase the strength of the army to a new fighting basis and quickly crush 
^^ the rebellion. In response to this call recruits were being hurried to Harrisburg from 
all parts of the State and there formed into regiments and sent to the front. In his 
diary, Dr. Creigh estimates that previous to this our town and vicinity had given two hundred 
men, but no distinctive Mercersburg Company had been formed and given to the army. To secure 
such credit some citizens undertook to raise a Company, and, to hasten the work, several eve- 
nings were devoted to addresses in front of the Mansion House, then kept by Colonel John 
Murphy. These meetings were addressed by Dr. Thomas Creigh, Dr. Philip Schaflf, Revs. Bruce and 
Brown. In stirring, patriotic appeals they urged the young men to respond promptly to their country's 
call for loyal aid in this hour of her sore distress ; to hasten the completion of the Company and thereby 
help preserve the Union ; perhaps save their homes from pillage or possible destruction from an invad- 
ing army. Quite as effective as the speeches in arousing military spirit was the unheralded arrival in 
our town of Lieutenant Jacob West, of St. Thomas, a Mexican War veteran, with a drum and fife corps, 
composed of the following persons, whose names were given me by C. M. Deatrich, of St. Thomas : 
John A. Sellers, fifer, George Bigley and David A. Fohl, snare drummers, and Jacob Snyder, base 
drummer. This thrilling and inspiring music, the kind best calculated to dispel fear and restore cour- 
age, was heard not only through the streets of Mercersburg, but also along the highwav between the 
two towns, arousing the populace to a state of great excitement. Through the combined influence of 
speeches, martial music, personal appeals and the longing of some for such an opportunity to enter the 
service, the roll was filled to a dozen more than the Company requirement of ninety-seven. The en- 
rolled members then repaired to Diagnothian Hall, where Dr. R. S. Brownson was chosen captain, and 
Samuel Hornbaker, first lieutenant. The selection of second lieutenant was deferred until our arrival at 
Harrisburg, when Dr. Jacob S. Trout was selected by the Company and commissioned by Governor 
Curtin to fill the office. 

In addition to raising this Company of young men, the citizens contributed $50 for the purchase 
of a beautiful silk flag, bearing the name Mercersburg in gold letters. It was mounted on a staflf, 
with carrying strap and belt. On the evening of August 6, 1862, the Company assembled in front of 
the Mansion House, in the presence of a large assemblage of interested citizens. Judge James O. 
Carson, in behalf of the donors, presented the flag to the Company in his usual forceful and patriotic 
manner. The flag was received by Captain Brownson in well expressed words of assurance that "the 
Company would do honorable service in defending our country and her beautiful emblem, which you 
have so lovingly and confidingly entrusted to us, its and }our defenders." One of the town ministers 
then addressed the Company, appealing to the young men to be loyal to the cause in defense of which 
they were taking up arms, and also to be mindful of their Christian duties when away from the church 
and refining influences of home. These services were closed with prayer by Dr. Creigh, who in the 
great fullness of his sympathetic and loving nature, commended us to the protecting care of Him who 
hath said, "Fear not them who are able to kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul." At the 
close of these services the men dispersed to their homes to further prepare for departure the following 
day. 

Early the next morning, August 7th, there began assembling in the public square, buggies, car- 
riages and wagons, which, after many touching and heart rendering scenes of leave-taking, conveyed 
the men to Greencastle, there to take the train for Harrisburg. On assembling the Company in Green- 
castle, Captain Brownson handed me the flag saying: "I make you color-bearer, and John K. Shat- 
zer color-guard, having full confidence that both of you will perform your duties faithfully and well." 
The flag was proudly borne and guarded through the streets of Harrisburg, and on to Camp Curtin, a 
mile or more away. The intense heat of that August noon-day sun and the several inches of stifling 
dust through which we marched, sorely tried our patriotism, as well as endurance. At Camp Curtin 

173 




174 mh MntnBhm^ 

we learned with saddened hearts that army regulations did not allow the carrying of Company flags, 
and that the flag would have to be sent home, as we were not permitted to carry it with us to the front. 

The returned flag was loaned to Capt. S. A. Bradley's Saxe Band, a fine musical organization of 
our town. A weak-minded, but patriotic boy, named Jim, was allowed what appeared to be the greatest 
joy of his life — carrying the flag when the band was on parade and caring for it when off parade. Jim's 
idea of care did not prove advantageous to the preservation of the flag ; it was to fling it daily to 
the breeze from his attic window, and to gaze proudly and admiringly upon this beautiful emblem of lib- 
erty, whipping itself into ribbons. When the intervals between parades were greater than Jim's pa- 
tience, he paraded, alone through our streets, carrying aloft the flag, unmindful of the gibes of teasing 
boys. He was fina'lly prevailed upon to give it up to a few of Company C boys, who after furling and 
covering, placed it in care of Captain James P. McCuIlough Post of Mercersburg. It now, August. 191 1, 
rests there, and we hope will always be cared for by some one who may cherish it as a memento of 
times that tried men's souls, turning father against son, and brother against brother in bloody strife. 

On our arrival at Camp Curtin, hungry and tired, at noon of that desperately hot August day, the 
first inquiry was, "When will dinner be ready?" To this query came the answer from a man with smil- 
ing countenance, "Come with me," which we willingly did and were piloted into a building where was 
awaiting us — a steaming hot dinner, you say? — No, tents in bundles, which we were told to shoulder 
and carry to a place designated to be our camp, where a man proficient in the art showed us how to erect 
them in a military manner. This done, our stomachs complained of even greater distress, when the 
"smiling man" repeated the "come with me" invitation. Surely this time his compassion for suffering 
humanity would induce him to yield to our pleading and hasten to appease our hunger ! but not yet ; 
although it was one step nearer to it. It was to draw rations and utensils in which to cook our saltr 
pork, pickled-beef, coffee, beans and rice. Then was heard the final "come with me," when we were led 
to the tramp's last hope, the wood-pile, and told to carry what we needed of it to camp, make fire and 
cook such a dinner as our gastronomies demanded, or our ability in the culinary art could supply. 
Alas! alas! "man's inhumanity to man." The following day we were taken into a large tent, open at 
one end, where sat an army surgeon, who, after we were divested of all our clothes, pinched, punched 
and gouged until feeling assured we were physically fit for the service. He then told us to jump as 
high as we could and knock our feet together as often as we could before landing, and finally to show 
our teeth and snap them together, as if we were expected to eat Rebels. 

Passing these tests successfully and embarrassingly, we were then sworn into the United States 
service, uniformed and armed with muzzle-loading Springfield rifles, of fifty calibre. The uniforms 
were handed out as we passed by in single file, without regard to the size of the uniform or the size of 
the man who received it, and, as might be expected, it often happened that the tall man got the short 
trousers, and the man with big feet the small shoes. After receiving our lottery-prize uniforms there 
began a lively trade in misfit suits until each one had clothes better adapted to his fonn. 

During our stay of about one week at Camp Curtin, the time was taken up with drill, camp guard, 
visiting other companies, sports of various kinds, and a few visits to Harrisburg. It was here that we 
received the State bounty of $50. The wages of the private were $13 per month, with an abundance of 
food of an excellent quality, that we learned to cook in a very satisfactory manner, after trying a Com- 
pany cook with unsatisfactory results. Early on the morning of August 15, tents were struck. On 
marching to the train the regiment was loaded on in freight cars, not Pullmans as soldiers are trans- 
ported in the present day. A bench on either side of the car, made of boards, served as seats, and the 
intervening floor space as beds, with poncho for mattress, overcoat for pillow and blanket for cover. 
When across the river and awaiting orders for the train to move, some of the alert regimental scouts es- 
pied, on a siding, a car of watermelons, a Southern product which was promptly attacked and quickly 
vanquished by the gnashing teeth which the examining surgeon was so careful to see were in good 
melon eating order. Some time later, when attacking the more animate Southern products, we our- 
selves were vanquished. 

On arrival at Baltimore an excellent and highly appreciated supper was served us. At the table 
we met our former townsman and native of Mercersburg, Washington Carson, who was very attentive 
to all the Company C boys. It was at the home of Mr. Carson that our second sergeant, David Car- 
son, son of Judge Carson, died of fever, September 13, 1862. After marching through the city, we 
again boarded freight-car sleepers, arriving in Washington early the next morning, where we were 
served with breakfast at "The Soldiers' Rest." About noon of that day we started, on foot, for the 




MAJOR ROBERT SMITH BROWXSOX. M. D. 



CAPTAIN JAMES PAULL McCULLOUGH 




front, crossing Long Bridge into Virginia, going into camp near Ft. Albany, an earthwork, and later 
moved to near Clouds Mills. 

Then followed short camps and hot and dusty marches ; the latter especially so one Sabbath when 
hastening to intercept a raid on Chain Bridge. After Lee's invasion of Maryland we were thrown into 
rifle pits, to protect Washington from invasion of the enemy. 

From the second battle of Bull Run, Pope's battle, came the booming of cannon and with it much 
excitement in our camp, for it became evident that the sound coming to us through the damp night air, 
of lumbering guns and wagons all moving toward Washington, meant retreat of the army. This 
greatly distressed us, for we had felt sanguine of victory once our division should be called into action. 
It also caused some uncertainty in our minds as to the addition of 100,000 more men to the army "quick- 
ly crushing the rebellion," as the call for this number of troops assured us it would. When the army 
began the pursuit of Lee, our division was halted at Monocacy, to protect Washington while Sykes' 
and Griffin's divisions of regulars, of our Fifth Corps, were in both South Mountain and Antietam 
battles. On the evening of September 17 we moved from our camp at Monocacy, passing through 
Frederick and over the mountain to the battlefield, where we arrived about eight o'clock, a forced night 
march of twenty-seven miles. When our division was moving into the position assigned us, we passed 
over the cornfield where there had been desperate fighting, causing great loss to the Union forces, as 
seen in broken artillery wheels, exploded caissons and disemboweled horses. 

When camping ground was assigned us we settled down to six weeks of wasted time, which was 
taken advantage of by our many home friends coming to visit us, bringing with them an abundance 
of dainty edibles which, as well as their visits, were thoroughly appreciated. 

A short time after our arrival at Antietam our division was sent across the river to feel the 
strength of the enemy, but with orders to avoid an engagement. We waded the canal and river be- 
low the Shepherdstown dam and were gone two days, encountering a small force of the enemy with 
whom our cavalry and battery had a little squabble, resulting in a few killed and wounded on each side. 
Our division, in reserve, were mere onlookers, a very uninteresting part. 

On this reconnoisance there were recovered at Leetown some of the army overcoats captured at 
Chambersburg by General Stuart on his celebrated raid around our army, which was then lying at 
Antietam. When returning on the evening of the second day, on nearing the river the entire command 
began singing, "John Brown's Ghost." In a little while came a messenger from the rear on a foaming 
horse and handed our General an order, when quick and sharp came the command "halt! about face! 
double-quick march !" The command was promptly obeyed, and John's ghost as promptly buried. The 
booming of cannon in the direction toward which we were hurrying soon ceased, and there came a sec- 
ond messenger with orders to "about face," "march in the direction of camp ;" when John's ghost was 
disinterred and sung to the finish. I will now give a little account of our Company officers. 

Robert Smith Brownson was born October 19, 1827, in Mercersburg, in the stone house on the 
comer of Main and Oregon streets, now owned and occupied by C. F. Fendrick. It was in this house 
that he died June 15, 1885. His father was John Brownson, his mother, Sarah (Smith) Brownson, 
daughter of William Smith, founder of Mercersburg. Having prepared for college in his native town, 
he entered the Freshman Class of Marshall College in 1843 and graduated with his class. He was 
a member of the Diagnothian Society. He began the study of medicine with Dr. Robert Parker Little, 
of Mercersburg, and obtained his diploma from the University of Pennsylvania, in 1851. Having 
practiced medicine for a short time in Beaver, Pa., in 1852 he returned to his native town and continued 
to practice here until a few months preceding his death. He was mustered into the United States serv- 
ice as Captain of Company C, One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, Au- 
gust II, 1862. He was promoted to Major of his regiment by the vote of his fellow commissioned offi- 
cers March 19, 1863. He married Miss Mary Coyle, daughter of Andrew L. Coyle, of Mercersburg, 
June 9, 1868. He died without issue. 

Major Brownson's chief distinction as a soldier was his heroic fortitude and calmness under fire, 
or under any other trying conditions. His wonderful physical endurance enabled him to keep at the 
head of his Company, whether marching through the Virginia stick-fast mud or scorching sun and 
stifling dust. He was ever ready with encouraging words for the weary ones on fatigueing marches, 
but for the shirkers he was equally ready with stinging rebuke. He very carefully guarded his men 
against sickness, and when any were in need of mild treatment, furnished the medicine himself, rather 
than have them answer surgeon's call, and risk being sent to the hospital, a place all dreaded. 



176 (§{h MnnvBbnr^ 

As a practicing physician in Mercersburg he was held in high esteem. He was a man of marked 
mental ability and retentive memory, recalling accurately important events of earlier days. He took an 
active part in politics ; was fond of argument and could be very sarcastic, in a kindly way, when with 
his friends. He was a man of many sterling qualities ; moderate in his professional charges and lenient 
in their collection. 

First Lieutenant Samuel Hornbaker was a married man with a family, and a shoemaker by occu- 
pation. His father was Henry Hornbaker, of Montgomery township, his wife a Miss St. Clair. He 
was active in raising the Company, and had some previous training in military afifairs, through being a 
member of the Mercersburg Rifles. He was mustered into the United States service as First Lieuten- 
ant of Company C, One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, August ii, 

1862. While our command was lying in camp at Antietam, having failed in his application for per- 
mit to visit his family, he went home without leave. He intended to return in a few days, but having 
taken sick there, he was detained beyond the time set, and had to be reported absent without leave. He 
was promptly court-martialed and dismissed from the service. Thus he lost the opportunity to distin- 
guish himself as an officer. He was popular with his men, who greatly regretted his misfortune. Later 
he enlisted in the Forty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry and was killed at the battle of Chancel- 
lorsville, May 12, 1864. 

Second Lieutenant Dr. Jacob S. Trout was a Fulton county man, practicing dentistry in Mercers- 
burg at the time of his enlistment. He took an active part in raising the Company. He was a 
fine looking man, with soldierly bearing, and a splendid commanding voice that made drilling under 
him very enjoyable to the men. He was mustered out with his Company at Harrisburg May 20, 

1863, and returned to McConnellsburg, where he died of pneumonia March 15, 1883. 

First Lieutenant Samuel Hornbaker having been retired January 16, 1863, the vacancy was filled 
by the Company choosing unanimously First Sergeant James P. McCullough to the office, his com- 
mission dating February 9, 1863. The office of Captain becoming vacant by the promotion of Captain 
Brownson to Major, the Company elected First Lieutenant McCullough to the vacancy. Captain Mc- 
Cullough was a fine drill officer, and popular with his men, as shown by their repeated promotion 
of him. He, too, had the courage to face the enemy without flinching. He was mustered out with 
his Company at Harrisburg May 20, 1863, and again entered the service as First Lieutenant of Com- 
pany D, Two Hundred and Ninth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry; was promoted to Captain of his 
Company September 17, 1864, and wounded at Fort Sedgwick while rallying a broken line in front of 
his own line April 2, 1865, and died the following day. 

Having given a sketch of our Company officers, I will now pay tribute to the memory of a noble 
and brave soldier, a man in the ranks like myself, who gave his life to the cause he so loyally supported. 
It was his misfortune to lose all his messmates at the battle of Fredericksburg, and being left entirely 
alone, a Fulton county boy unacquainted in our home section, wandered about the Company street 
looking desolate enough, but with too much spirit to ask favor. Appreciating his situation, I inquired 
of my messmates if it were not our duty to offer him quarters with us, and all readily assented. On 
receiving our invitation he accepted with expressions of gratefulness for our consideration of him, and 
at once became a full sharer of whatever comforts or discomforts fell to the lot of "The Happy 
Family" Mess No. i, a name given us because of the many squabbles for which we were noted. Our 
new chum had not been with us long before we had reason to feel grateful to him for accepting a 
home with us, as he proved a messmate to be proud of. 

He had pleasant manners, was a willing worker, whether the duties imposed on us were agreeable 
or otherwise. When erecting winter quarters of pine poles with notched corners, and stone fireplaces, 
he showed great aptness for the work, also in cutting down trees and carrying wood to camp half a 
mile distant. But in addition to these features of his character he was intenselv loyal, even to sacri- 
ficing his life, which he laid down at the battle of Chancellorsville May 3, 1863. 

On the night before the battle, we were talking together and our new messmate, Nicholas C. 
Trout, younger brother of Lieutenant Trout, remarked that he felt that he would be killed in the fight 
that all knew would begin in the morning. Some one then remarked, "Nick, having such feeling, 
you had better not go into the fight." He replied with some spirit, "I am not made of that kind of 
stuff, I am going in," and did go in. He showed no indication whatever that he dreaded the fate which 



mii MnntBbttt^ 



177 



he believed was awaiting him. His body was buried among the unknown Union dead. A noble, brave 
boy of cherished memory. 

Through the kindness of Miss Ellen D. Creigh I have been favored with the use of her father's 
diary, which has been of great service in securing accuracy of dates and events that transpired in those 
long ago days. I have also taken some data from the Regimental Sketch Booklet by Colonel D. W. 
Rowe and Adjutant Stewart. Seth Dickey 





INCE telling of the organization of a Company of young men in Mercersburg for service 
in the army, I have been requested to describe the service this Company rendered, and will 
do so by the introduction of a letter written to the Indianapolis News, which will explain 
itself. 

"The Battle of Fredericksburg 
"Editor Indianapolis News: 

"In an article published in your paper on Burnside's battle of Fredericksburg, the writer informs 
the Indiana soldiers that they have reason to be proud of the fact that their dead and wounded were 
found nearer the enemy's line, at the stone wall in front of Marye's Heights, than those of any other 
State. Thereby implying that the Indiana troops advanced farther than any others at the above named 
battle. That I am not disposed to concede to the troops of any other State the credit that is due to 
those of Pennsylvania alone is why I protest against this claim going into histon,' unchallenged. 

"The writer, whose very interesting article you have published, may be sincere in making the 
claim which is so flattering to the valor of the 'Hoosier boys,' but that the claim is not valid I think I 
can furnish abundant proof — proof, too, that will bestow to Pennsylvania's sons the high honor of hav- 
ing advanced beyond all other troops, whether regular or State, in the assault on the stone wall at the 
base of Marye's Heights. 

"It is neither my purpose nor desire in any way to try to deprive the brave Indiana troops of any 
glory they may have won in that terrible and disastrous battle, but simply to place in history credit 
where it properly belongs. And in order to sustain my claim of credit for the Pennsylvania troops, 
it will be necessary to describe the field of action and the battle that was fought on the part of the field 
in question. 

"Back of the city of Fredericksburg is a long and narrow meadow, separating the city from the 
line of fortifications on Marye's Heights. This meadow is cut transversely by the Plank road, leading 
from Fredericksburg through the line of fortifications and on to Chancellorsville, nine miles to the 
west. On the side of this meadow, next the enemy, is a slight bluff, under the shelter of which the 
assaulting columns formed for attack on the Rebel lines. From the apex of this bluff to the stone wall 
is probably a distance of a little over 300 yards. This portion of the field is a slightly ascending plain. 
The only obstructions were a brick house and two board fences. The first of these fences was con- 
structed of narrow boards, fastened horizontally to the posts on the side of approach, making it rather 
difficult to remove them. The second fence was made of broad boards, which were fastened ver- 
tically, like palings, on the opposite side of approach. Consequently they were easily knocked off. 
These fences, when reached by our charging column , were found to be in a fairly good state of repair, 
but both of them were completely razed to the ground by Humphrey's charging column of Pennsyl- 
vania troops. 

"Between the bluff where the lines were formed and the first of these fences, lay three lines of 
Union troops— the positions occupied by them when checked in their advance by the Rebel infantry 
and artillery on the afternoon of December 13, 1862. The foremost of these lines did not even reach 
the first fence when compelled to lie down to escape annihiliation. These were the troops of Sumner's 
grand right division, and rated among the best of the Army of the Potomac. No other attempt, after 
the checking of these lines of Sumner's men, was made to dislodge the enemy from his strong position, 
until after sundown of that evening. Then General Burnside directed General Hooker to make a final' 
effort with one of his divisions to carry the works on Marye's Heights by storm and break through the 
center. 

"General Hooker, after viewing the position and conferring with several corps commanders, see- 

178 



ing the futility of attacking at that point by direct assault, went to General Burnside and urged that the 
attack be not made. But receiving peremptory' orders to make the attack, he returned and directed Gen- 
eral Humphrey, commanding the Third division of the Fifth Corps, composed entirely of Pennsyl- 
vania regiments, to prepare to charge the Rebel works with his division, consisting of Tyler's and Alle- 
baugh's brigades, numbering 4,000 men. General Humphrey at once moved his command through 
the city and across the meadow by the Plank road. 

"On reaching the opposite side of the meadow, Allebaugh was ordered to file to the left and 
Tyler to the right of the road, thus forming line along base of the bluff. Tyler's position soon be- 
came the target for a destructive raking fire from a field piece inside the fortifications above the old 
tannery. Shells to the number of six fell fairly in line ; then the gun was silenced by the third shell 
fired from a gun placed on the outskirts of the city. Those six shells were as distinctly seen when soar- 
ing toward us on their mission of destruction as is a baseball when sent on its flight by a strong batter. 
After the silencing of the Rebel gun. General Tyler moved his brigade (under the fire of sharpshoot- 
ers) to the south side of the road, forming line in rear of Allebaugh's brigade, thus securing a less 
exposed position while forming columns for attack. 

"When the battery which had been playing on the Rebel works ceased firing, this column of Penn- 
sylvania troops, named the 'forlorn hope' by fighting Joe Hooker, formed in two lines and was led by 
General Humphrey, mounted on his black horse. His command rang out clear and firm, 'Officers to 
the front in this charge. Never mind the obstacles in the way ! Charge !" 

"Then came the blare of bugles mingled with a great shout from the four thousand men, and 
the tramp of as many pairs of feet sounding like the onrushing of a tornado through some rocky 
canyon. And like a tornado rushed on these confident and enthusiastic troops, tramping over Sum- 
ner's lines of battle lying on the field, unmindful of their cries of 'halt — lie down — you will all be 
killed.' But the momentum of that column was too great to be so easily checked and it moved rapidly 
on. 

"A short distance beyond these prostrate troops, over whom we charged, was encountered the 
first line of fence, which was soon broken down. The second fence, a little farther on, fell like a flash 
before that rapidly moving column, which, at that moment, seemed so hopeful of success. But when 
within thirty or forty yards of the stone wall (where was concealed a large force of Rebel infantry), 
the 'forlorn hope' met its fate by the withering fire from the enemy in front and the Union troops 
in the rear, over whom it had just charged, they being unable, in the dim light of the evening and the 
smoke and excitement of battle, to distinguish friend from foe ; thus breaking the charge and ending 
Bumside's unskilfully planned and unskilfully executed battle of Fredericksburg. 

"The strong point that I make to sustain my claim that the Pennsylvania troops composing the 
'forlorn hope' reached a point nearer the Rebel lines than any others at that battle is, that Humphrey's 
division, which made the last charge, passed oz'cr and beyond all the lines of battle on the field, and that 
the fences it encountered after passing over these prostrate troops of Sumner's division, were in al- 
most perfect condition when reached, showing clearly that no attempt had been made to break them 
down, which, of necessity, must have been done had any charging column gone beyond them, as did 
Humphrey's Pennsylvanians alone. 

"After the charge was broken, we fell back to the base of the bluflf in disorder, reformed and 
moved into the city, where we remained until two or three o'clock the next morning, when we were 
taken on the field and lined up behind a breastwork of dead men, piled two and three deep in places, 
and covered with blankets. Before daylight appeared, we were taken away from this morgue-like place 
into an equally suggestive one, a graveyard in the city, where we went into camp over Sabbath. We 
made a very marked display of our piety as we sat on the ground with pocket testaments in hand, and 
backs against tombstones, being careful to have the tombstones between us and 'Johnny Rebs' spatter- 
ing bullets that occasionally battered into the old, unoccupied frame building at back of the yard, send- 
ing shivers down the tombstones at our backs. 

"After nightfall on the evening of the battle, Edward Byers, Theodore Crilly, Thomas St. Clair, 
and John Sacks volunteered to go in search of wounded. On finding our Fourth Sergeant, W. W. 
Brinkley, they removed him to a nearby house, where he died during the night. In the morning, when 
going for his body, they were fired on, several bullets striking the door jamb as they entered the 
house. The body was removed through the rear and interred in the graveyard where we were camp- 
ing, and the grave carefully marked with inscribed headboard. But the body is not among the knozi'u 



180 (§Ui il^rr^rBburg 

Union soldiers buried in the National Cemeter\' at Fredericksburg; from which fact we may infer 
that the headboard was either lost or destroyed by the fortunes of war. 

"That General Humphrey's command should be chosen as the 'forlorn hope' by fighting- Joe Hooker 
was bestowing on it no trivial honor, and to show that it did not fail to meet the confidence reposed in it 
I will state that the One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Regiment, with a few of Berdans sharpshooters, 
were assigned the important and perilous duty of covering the retreat of the anny from Fredericks- 
burg. We were placed on picket south of the city but a short distance from the enemy's line of for- 
tifications, and within hearing of their voices on the night of December 15, when the evacuation be- 
gan. On the morning of the i6th, before daylight, there came an order to vacate our posts. On 
reaching the railroad and learning that the order was a mistake, we quietly reoccupied the vacated posts, 
unobserved by the enemy. The men were cautioned against talking and told to hold their canteens to 
prevent rattling. At daybreak the second and final order came to retire. The picket, covered by a 
line of skirmishers, marched with so much haste to the last pontoon bridge then remaining that no time 
was allowed to get our knapsacks (stored in the city) as we passed through. Some of the boys pro- 
tested against this enforced assignment of their dufile to the Rebs, and were told to hurry along or 
they, too, might be assigned to them. The bridge was being cut loose as we came to it, and when all 
were aboard It swung to the current, carrying to safety the last of the evacuating army, the One Hun- 
dred and Twentv-sixth Regiment, excepting Lieutenant Lentz and a few of his men who had been 
overlooked when withdrawing the pickets. One of his men swam the river, procured a boat and res- 
cued the Lieutenant and his remaining men. 

"Once across the river, we hastened to the old camp in the woods and settled down to the monotony 
of camp life. I will here quote from a letter published in the Philadelphia Press, written after the 
close of the war by General Franklin to General Mulholland. He states that the absolute impregna- 
bility of the central Rebel position to an attack from the front is well expressed in a boast of an artil- 
lery officer on that side, that the guns were so placed that a chicken could not live within the concentric 
arc of their fire on the plain below. General Franklin further states that it was across this plain that 
Burnside ordered the division of Sumner's right grand division, and afterwards sent Humphrey's divi- 
sion of Hooker's central grand division to certain and hopeless slaughter. 

"To further show that it must have been the Pennsylvania troops of Humphrey's division that 
reached a point nearest to the stone wall at the base of Marye's Heights, I will subjoin a portion of 
General Hooker's report of the charge, which will also furnish proof of the extreme lack of military 
judgment on the part of the commanding General in ordering the assault that resulted in a loss of 
forty-four per cent, of its number. 

"Before closing this letter I will mention one other incident in connection with the history of this 
command which will show that when men were being selected for important and perilous service the 
Pennsylvania troops came in for a goodly share of such honors. General Hooker, who commanded 
the Army of the Potomac at the battle of Chancellorsville, remembering the good work performed by 
Humphrey's division at Fredericksburg, ordered T\ler"s brigade of this division, after the Eleventh 
Corps had been driven back by Stonewall Jackson, to make an effort to recover the ground thus lost, 
and if possible drive the enemy from his stronghold in the thickets of the wilderness. On that pleas- 
ant Sabbath morning. May 3, 1863, with one hundred rounds of ammunition, Tyler's men advanced 
promptly and confidently to a position in the thick woods; with General French's command on our 
left, and the right of our brigade in the air. We opened with a brisk fire, which was maintained 
with so much vigor as to frustrate several attempts of the enemy to fomi for a charge on our front, 
as we were told later by prisoners. 

"Our command held its position for over two hours, when, from lack of ammunition and conse- 
quent slacking of the fire, the enemy succeeded in turning our extreme right by the flank, and forcing 
the entire line back under the protection of the batteries which were placed along the Chancellorsville 
and Ely's Ford road, near the small white house. The retreat was hurriedly accomplished, with heavy 
loss, for we were fired on by the enemy, who followed us out of the woods into the open ground. 
There they were checked and driven back with great slaughter by the eleven guns that opened on them 
with grape, canister and shells. Many of the dead and wounded, of both sides, that lay in the woods, 
were burned by the fire kindled by the exploding shells. 

"After a few minutes rest this badly shattered brigade, which entered the woods with 1.600 men 
and lost 446 of this number, reassembled by bugle call and moved to a new position — one of defense 
instead of assault. But no further fighting occurred on that day. 



mh MnaxBbm^ '^i 



"The terrible carnage of the 3d followed as it was by a day of inaction by Hooker and the enemy 
in his immediate front, made the 4th seem, by comparison, like a Puritan Sabbath. This day gave Lee 
the opportunity to send a strong force to aid in attacking Sedgwick at Fredericksburg, and force him 
back across the river. Thereby he compelled Hooker to abandon the well planned campaign that 
started out with so much hope of success. Thus Hooker at Chancellorsville, like Burnside at Fred- 
ericksburg, having failed to force Lee back to his lines of defense at Petersburg and Richmond, had 
no alternative but to fall back across the Rappahannock and save his army from further loss. 

"After nightfall of the 5th the tired and disheartened army began the retreat across the river 
whence they came only a few days before. When starting on this campaign my load weighed just 
seventy-five pounds, and I threw away none of it. Others must have tired of theirs, for both over- 
coats and blankets were strewn along the way. Tyler's brigade and part of Sykes' division of regu- 
lars belonging to the Fifth Corps, being assigned the duty of covering the retreat, kept the fires bright 
by burning commissary stores, and camp equipment to prevent their falling into the hands of the 
enemy. Before daylight, with fires still burning and the rain coming down steadily, the rear guard 
took up the line of march, or rather wallowing through the deep and sticky mud. The Rebs followed 
cautiously, speeding our departure with an occasional shot, which was promptly returned, keeping them 
at a respectful distance. 

"On reaching the river our regiment was ordered by General Humphrey to line up along the road, 
stack amis and await the passing over of Sykes' regulars, who had been in the rear up to that time, 
leaving the One Hundred and Twenty-sixth Regiment the very last of the army to cross the sway- 
ing bridge, forcibly reminding the men of a like experience when retreating from Fredericksburg. 
After all were over the bridge builders began taking up the pontoons under cover of a battery of 
20-pound Parrott guns, placed on the north bluff of the river. This crossing took place at United 
States Ford. Army wagons were left behind on this campaign, all supplies being packed on horses 
and mules. 

"Once over the river, a further march of twelve miles through such mud as can only be found in 
Virginia, brought us to a halt in our old camp at Falmont, vacated on the 27th of April. 

Seth Dickey" 

Ma\ar (fsnipral ^aakers ISr^mrt 

About 2 o'clock on that day (December 13th I received orders to send another of my divi- 
sions to support General Sturgis, and about the same time I received an order from Burnside 
to cross over my two divisions and attack the enemy on the telegraph road— the same posi- 
tion we had been butting against all day long. As soon as I received the order, my divisions com- 
menced crossing. I rode forward to see what I could learn from the officers, French, Wilcox, 
Couch and Hancock, who had been engaged in the attack. Their opinion, with one exception, was 
that the attack should not be made at that point. After conferring with them I went to examine the 
position to see whether or not it could be turned. Discovering no weak point, and seeing that many 
of my troops that had been already engaged in the attack were considerably demoralized, and fearing 
that, should the enemy make an advance, even of a small column, nothing but disaster would follow, 
I sent my aid-de-camp to General Burnside to say that I advised him not to attck at that place. He 
returned saying that the attack must be made. I had the matter so much at heart that I put spurs to 
my horse and rode over there (the Lacy House where the committee were sitting) and tried to dis- 
suade General Burnside from making the attack. He insisted on its being made. I then returned and 
brought up every available battery in the city, with a view to break away their barriers by the use of 
artillery. I proceeded against the barriers as I would against a fortification and endeavored to break 
a hole sufificiently large for a "forlorn hope" to enter. 

Before that, the attack along the line, it seemed to me, had been too general — not sufficiently con- 
centrated. I had two batteries posted on the left of the road, within four hundred yards of the position 
on which the attack was to be made, and I had other parts of batteries posted on the right of the road 
at a distance of five or six hundred yards. I had all of these batteries playing with great vigor, until 
sunset, upon that point; but with no apparent effect upon the Rebels or upon their works. 

During the last part of the cannonading, I had given directions to General Humphrey's division 
to form, under the shelter which a small hill afforded, in column for assault. When the fire of the 
artillery ceased, I gave directions for the enemy's works to be assaulted. General Humphrey's men 



182 



mh Mntnabnt^ 



took off their knapsacks, overcoats, and haversacks. They were directed to make the assault with 
empty rifles, for there was no time there to load and fire (they were loaded all the same, S. Dickey). 
When the word was given, the men moved forward with great impetuosity. They ran and hurrahed 
and I was encouraged by the great good feeling that pervaded them. The head of General Hum- 
phrey's column advanced to within, perhaps, fifteen or twenty yards of the stone wall, which was the 
advanced position which the Rebels held, and then they were thrown back as quickly as they had ad- 
vanced. Probably the whole of the advance and retiring did not occupy fifteen minutes. They left 
behind, as was reported, seventeen hundred and sixty (1,760) of their number out of about four thou- 
sand. 

I may as well state here that Sykes' division was drawn up to support Humphreys, so that in case 
he should succeed, I could throw forward all the force that I had left — Sykes' division, about four 
thousand men — to hold the position in face of thirty thousand who were massed behind that wall. 
That was why I did not like to make the attack ; because, even if successful, I could not hold the posi- 
tion. It was now just dark. Finding that I had lost as many men as my orders required me to lose, I 
suspended the attack and directed that the men should, for the advance line between Fredericksburg 
and the enemy, hold a ditch that runs along about midway between the enemy's lines and the city ; 
which would afford a shelter for the men. I will say that, in addition to the musketry fire that my men 
were exposed to, the crests of the hills surrounding Fredericksburg forming almost semi-circles, were 
filled with artillery, and the focus was the column that moved up to this assault. That focus was within 
good canister range, though I do not think any canister was thrown on my men that day. All these 
difficulties were apparent and perfectly well known to me before I went into this assault. They were 
known also to other officers. General French said to me that "the whole army could not take that 
point." 

Question. Had you made any impression on their work? 

Anszver. Not the slightest ; no more than you could make upon the side of a mountain of rock. 

Question. How did your men behave during the attack? 

Anszver. They behaved well. There never was anything more glorious than the behavior of the 
men. No campaign in the world ever saw a more gallant advance than Humphrey's men made there. 
But they were put to do a work that no men could do. ( See Report on the Conduct of the War, Part 
I, pp. 667, 671.) 




Su l^iB Baugt^trr 

y^^ OLONEL Ritchey was a native of Franklin county, Pennsylvania. He was born June 20, 
yil 1820, on a farm at the source of the Falling Spring, and died at his residence in Mercersburg 
ft I on the evening of January 24, 1884, in the sixty-fifth year of his age. 

^^^/ He was of Scotch-Irish and American ancestry, his grandparents having removed from 

Armagh county, Ireland, to Franklin county in 1791. His grandmother, Elizabeth Acheson, 
was a daughter of Thomas Acheson, an esteemed gentleman of Ireland, whose father, Archibald Ache- 
son, was Earl of Gosford, Viscount and Baron Gosford of Market Hill, County Armagh, in the Peerage 
of Ireland, and Baron Worlingham of Beccles, County Suffolk, in that of the United Kingdom. His 
Lordship was a representative Peer of Ireland, and a Baron of Nova Scotia, G. C. B., Lord Lieutenant 
and Custar Rotutorium of the County Armagh and Vice Admiral of the Coast in the Province of Ulster, 
P. C. Among the decorations of the Earl is the Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath. This order was 
founded by Henry IV in 1399. Its antiquity is second only to the Order of the Garter, and was con- 
ferred only for eminent military services. He was also a member of the Privy Council of the King. 
Thomas Acheson, son of Archibald Acheson, was the great-grandfather of Colonel Ritchey. 

The titled Acheson family opposed the marriage of their daughter, Margaret, to the Scotchman, 
John Ritchie. The young couple eloped, the bride being not yet seventeen years of age. In con- 
sequence, her father cut off her portion of the Acheson estate to only £100, sterling. The marriage 
took place in 1787, and in 1791 they came to the United States and settled in Franklin county, at the 
head of the Falling Spring, near Chambersburg ; and thus was founded the Ritchey family of Frank- 
lin county, Pennsylvania. 

To this couple were born ten children, some of whom may yet linger in the memories of the peo- 
ple of Mercersburg and vicinity. The eldest daughter, Jane, was born in Belfast, Ireland ; Sarah, the 
mother of Sarah and Margaret Andrew, late of Mercersburg, was born at sea while the parents were 
journeying to America. Then followed Margaret, Martha, Elizabeth, William, the father of Colonel 
Ritchey, Samuel, Hamilton, Acheson, and John. The mother was a woman of great mental ability, and 
among her friends was an authority on many subjects, especially the history of England. 

On his maternal side Colonel Ritchey was a descendant of the Clan Lindsay of Scotland. The 
Lindsay family is one of the oldest and proudest in Scotland, tracing their history as far back as 11 16. 
It is of the highest Norman origin. Baldric De Lindsay being the Anglo-Norman founder of the race 
in Great Britain. A baron and large land proprietor in England, he was nearly related to William the 
Conqueror, with whom he came over to England. It was his son, Walter De Lindsay, 11 16, who 
founded the family in Scotland from whom the Lindsays all spring. Colonel Ritchey's maternal grand- 
mother was an Andrew, and a daughter of Captain John Andrew, who conmianded a Company of 
Cumberland county militia during the Revolutionary War. He became Judge Advocate of Court 
Martial at the close of the war. 

Colonel Ritchey's father died when he was eight years old, and his mother, who was Margaret 
Lindsay, moved to Mercersburg. He received his early education in the private schools of Mercers- 
burg, and entered Marshall College in 1840. On account of delicate health he left college before tak- 
ing his degree and entered business in Mercersburg. In 1844 he removed to Baltimore, and began 
his career in the office of John W. Brown, one of the leading shipping merchants of the city. Sub- 
sequently, he became engaged in the wholesale white goods business as a member of the firm of Duval, 
Keighler & Company. He was also identified with their successors, Duval, Rogers & Ritchey. He 
married Adelaide Isabel Brown, daughter of John W. Brown, November 3, 1853. Mr. Brown was 
known as "John W. Brown, the Scotchman." His wife, Maria (Duryea) Brown, was born in New 
York and was of French and Holland-Dutch ancestry. She was descended from the Kips of Revo- 
lutionary War fame, and was a member of the Old Trinity Church, New York City. Colonel Ritchey 
resided in Baltimore till 1858, where his two oldest sons were bom. 

183 



184 mh MmnsbntQ 

Just before the breaking out of the Civil War he returned to Mercersburg with his family. He 
took an active interest in politics and was a pronounced Democrat until the war began, when he be- 
came an ardent Republican. He frequently served his party in a representative capacity, always with 
great skill and ability, and his counsels were frequently sought by men influential in the politics of the 
day. 

When the war broke out he enlisted in the One Hundred and Fifty-eighth Regiment, Pennsyl- 
vania Volunteers, which was organized in November, 1862, to serve for nine months. He was promoted 
Sergeant-Major of Company I in November; and February 14, 1863, was again promoted, this time 
to the Second Lieutenancy. The Colonel of the regiment was David B. McKibbin, formerly of the 
United States Army, from whom Lieutenant Ritchey learned the work of a drill master. The follow- 
ing was said of Colonel Ritchey by Mr. Seth Dickey, of Mercersburg, himself a gallant soldier : "Col- 
onel Ritchey, as a military man, was a fine disciplinarian, firm but not severe. He studied military 
tactics and required the regimental ofiScers who were of lower rank than himself to do the same, and 
recite to him. He won the respect of his men, who had great confidence in his military judginent, 
and were proud of his courage." 

His regiment spent the winter of 1862-63 ^t Newbern, N. C. It saw some hard service in haz- 
ardous undertakings. It was next sent to Fortress Monroe and took an active part in the expedition 
designed as a feint upon Richmond. It was then ordered to Boonsboro via Harper's Ferry, and re- 
ported to General Meade, who was following the retreat of the Rebel army from Gettysburg. Later, 
it was ordered for duty to a position on the National Road at the South Mountain. General Stuart 
made his first great raid about this time, and surprised Lieutenant Ritchey, who was in uniform and 
on furlough in Mercersburg. General Stuart's men were in the town for several hours, but Lieutenant 
Ritchey eluded them and rejoined his command. Soon thereafter the One Hundred and Fifty-eighth 
regiment was ordered to Chambersburg, and on the 12th of August, 1863, was mustered out, the term 
of enlistment having expired. 

Lieutenant Ritchey now assisted in the organization of Company D, Two Hundred and Ninth 
Regiment, Pennsylvania Volunteers, and was chosen Major of this regiment. It was immediately sent 
to the front and was at once engaged in active service at Bermuda Hundred, on the James river. 
While here he wrote as follows to his uncle : "I do not believe in the doctrine of a man having arms 
in his hands and armistices in his mouth. It has not the ring of the metal of a true soldier. I heard 
last evening that General Sheridan and his command are expected to arrive here shortly, and if he 
does and it is as large as I think it is, the army will settle the case without the aid of the politicians. 
Believe me, I will do my duty as a soldier." 

The Two Hundred and Ninth saw much hard fighting from the outset. The first engagement was 
at Chapin's Farm, where it participated in the main attack upon Fort Harrison. The charge was 
heroically made and the fort captured. On the night of November 17th the enemy made an attack 
upon the picket line in considerable force, and Colonel Kauffman, who was division officer of the day, 
Captain Henry Lee, and Lieutenant Hendricks, with nineteen men, were captured and held as pris- 
oners. It was Major Ritchey's duty (he being now left in chief command of the regiment) to retake 
the picket line, and he relates that the most difficult incident in his war experience was to select a 
man to command the force of 200 men in the charge. He felt confident they would not return alive. 
His choice fell upon the brave young Captain, James P. McCullough, of Mercersburg. The following 
note, written to Major Ritchey by Captain McCullough while engaged in this duty, was preserved by 
the former and highly prized by him. It furnishes a remarkable picture of the work and hazard of 
a soldier's life. 

"Major Ritchey : 

"I brought some two hundred men out under a very sharp fire. We were exposed to view in the 
rnoonlight. Some ten or twelve of my men broke and went back. I have established them in the 
right of Post 109, next the close Post on the left. I was on the old line, but as there are no pits at 
Posts 107. 106, and 105, and some of the men who were in the old picket line are here and sav they 
are enfiladed right and left. Lieutenant Jones says the same. The Lieutenant was near the is't Post 
m the hollow (103). He says the Rebels hold that certainly, and the Lieutenant says all the posts in the 
field. He does not know what became of the men, has not seen any, vet thinks most of them are 
prisoners, among them Lieut. Hendricks, Capt. Lee, and the Colonel. I think there should be a strong 



skirmish line on our right, as there are but few men if any between our line and the breastworks. 
Lieutenant Jones is in command. Send up the stragglers. J. P. McCullough" 

In November the regiment was transferred from the Army of the James to that of the Potomac, 
and with the Two Hundred and Sixth and Two Hundred and Eighth formed the First Brigade. In 
the spring the Two Hundred and Ninth became a part of General Grant's army, and took part in the 
advance on Petersburg and the investment of that city. Here it saw active service in several engage- 
ments. Fort Steadman was captured by the Confederates. General Hartranft ordered the Two Hun- 
dred and Ninth to charge and retake the fort, "And," says Lieutenant-Colonel Fredericks, "forward 
we went, not one officer nor a man halting or faltering until our advanced line was regained, and our 
colors were planted on the works." Major Ritchey's sabre was struck by shell three different times in 
this charge. For his gallant and meritorious conduct in this assault he was brevetted Lieutenant- 
Colonel, his commission to take effect from the date of this assault, March 25, 1865. 

In the further operations about Petersburg and the final capture of the city, the Two Hundred 
and Ninth took a gallant and heroic part. Major Ritchey led his regiment to the attack on Fort Sedg- 
wick on the morning of the 2d of April, which was captured on the following morning. The loss was 
seven killed and fifty-two wounded. Captain James P. McCullough was among the killed, and Major 
Ritchey among the wounded. 

The following detail of the wounding of Colonel Ritchey was given by Captain Kuhn, Company 
D, Two Hundred and Ninth Regiment, late of Mercersburg: "Colonel Ritchey, finding the anmiuni- 
tion was becoming low, started back over an exposed open space to order another supply, when he was 
almost immediately shot through the groin." In remarking upon this, Captain Kuhn said that he "al- 
ways regarded the act of Col. Ritchey as especially courageous, as it was not incumbent upon him to do 
this ; another man in his place might have ordered some private or petty officer to perform this dan- 
gerous duty." Colonel Ritchey was picked up and carried off the field by the late John Gift, of 
Bridgeport, who also afterwards assisted in attending him in the hospital. 

A letter written by him while in the hospital, speaks of this battle as follows : "I feel proud of my 
corps, and particularly of the Third division ; a better body of troops never formed a line of battle than 
those who composed that division — all Pennsylvanians, and all ready for fight when it was necessary. 
Lentil I read General Sheridan's official report I was under the impression that the Fifth and Second 
Corps had the hardest fighting, but it is not so; two divisions of the Ninth Corps (second and third) 
did the hardest fighting in the whole line. The fight commenced a little before daylight on the 2d of 
April, and lasted the entire day, no one stopped to either breakfast, dine or sup. I was wounded 
about one o'clock and I can speak from experience up to that time, and I am told the fighting was 
just as hard from that until night as it had been in the morning; the Rebs made several attempts to re- 
capture the line in the afternoon. When the charge was made in the morning, we captured a four-gun 
battery of the celebrated New Orleans Washington Artillery, with the Colonel of the regiment, and 
all the other officers and men. Colonel Eshelman, who commanded the captured regiment, is a Penn- 
sylvanian reared in Philadelphia." 

For gallant and meritorious conduct in the assault upon Fort Sedgwick on this occasion he was 
again promoted and brevetted full Colonel of the United States Volunteers, his commission to take effect 
April 2, 1865. The regiment was mustered out May 31, 1865. Colonel Ritchey had been taken to 
Armory Square Hospital, Washington, D. C, where he remained until July 7th, at which time he was 
discharged and relieved of further service on account of his disabilities. 

Colonel Ritchey was regarded as a brave soldier and a good and excellent drill master by all his 
comrades and superior officers. General Hartranft wrote the following letter to Governor Curtin, dated 
Norristown, Pa., October 13, 1865: "It is with great pleasure that I recommend John L. Ritchey, of 
Franklin county, Pennsylvania, late Major of the Two Hundred and Ninth Regiment, Pennsylvania 
Volunteers and brevet Colonel to your most favorable consideration. I cannot say too much in his 
favor as a soldier either in camp or in battlg. He was twice brevetted for services in the spring cam- 
paign. In the last engagement, April 2, 1865, he was severely wounded while fighting with his regi- 
ment. He is a gentleman and an apt scholar and therefore think him competent to fill any civil appoint- 
ment in your gift. 

"I am your most obedient servant, 
"To Hon. A. G. Curtin, "J. D. Hartranft, 

Governor of Pennsylvania." "Brevet Major-General." 



»86 mh Mnmnhm^ 

After the close of the war Colonel Ritchey was engaged for a time in the mercantile business in 
Mercersburg. On January 23, 1871, his wife died, leaving him with the following children, Lind- 
say, Richard, Adelaide, McKibbin, Grace, Michael, and John Acheson. 

In 1872 Colonel Ritchey was appointed Collector of Internal Revenue for the Sixteenth District 
of Pennsylvania, holding his commission from President Grant. He discharged the duties of this im- 
portant office with credit to himself and satisfaction to the government; his accounts were invariably 
pronounced models of accuracy. He quit the service in 1873 to accept a position in the Cumberland 
Valley railroad offices in Chambersburg, this position being oflfered to him by his life-long friend, 
Thomas A. Scott. The intimate friendship of these two men dated from their boyhood, when both 
clerked in the same store in Mercersburg. For the last ten years of his life Colonel Ritchey filled the 
office of Auditor of the C. V. R. R., and Secretary and Treasurer of the South Pennsylvania Iron 
& Railroad Company. 

Colonel Ritchey was a member of the United Presbyterian Church of Mercersburg, and was zeal- 
ous in promoting its interests and active as superintendent of the Sabbath school. He was a good citi- 
zen, a kind neighbor, and an honest man. It was the opinion of his physicians that his death was due 
to a complication of trouble, superinduced by the wound he received in the service of his country. No 
braver soldier or more efficient officer ever enlisted from Franklin county than Colonel Ritchey, and 
Mercersburg honors his memory as a man, a soldier and a citizen. 

Grace Ritchey Crum 




i'tin^ltglfts nn E\\tn Iftstnrir lEit^ntn 



ANDREW R. Schnebly, veteran of the Mexican War, was honorably discharged in 1848, after 
eleven months' service. He enlisted at Fort McHenry, in Captain Tilghman's Battery, Light 
Artillery of Maryland and the District of Columbia, and at once set sail for Vera Cniz on 
the barque Paoli. 

The voyage occupied two whole weeks in consequence of being becalmed in the Bahamas 
for several days. 

Reaching Vera Cruz they encamped outside the city on the beach. At times a "Norther" helped 
on the tide considerably. One night they were driven from their tents by the waves and compelled to 
seek higher ground. At other times the sand blew in on them in clouds. 

Mr. Schnebly remembers Vera Cruz as a walled city with iron gates, the height of the wall being 
about ten feet and the width six feet. On this the sentinels walked guard. 

The company never got farther than Jalapa, about thirty-five miles from Vera Cruz, but Adjutant 
Steele took Mr. Schnebly along with him as Orderly to the City of Mexico. After leaving Jalapa 
the first stop was at Perote and the next at Pueblo. Three months later the City of Mexico was taken 
and the war was ended. 

The Mexican General, Santa Anna, asked for protection as far as the coast. Mr. Schnebly was 
appointed Sergeant of a guard of twelve men, which escorted him to Antigua, a port eighteen miles 
above Vera Cruz. 

Santa Anna and his family were conveyed in two litters, he occupying one and his wife and daugh- 
ter the other. On reaching the coast they sailed for Jamaica. 

Mr. Schnebly returned by way of the Mississippi and Ohio rivers to Pittsburg. Here he was dis- 
charged. 

II 
"Up from the South at break of day, 
Bringing to Winchester fresh dismay. 
The affrighted air with a shudder bore 

The terrible grumble, and rumble, and roar. 
Telling the battle was on once more. 
And Sheridan twenty miles away." 

Our townsman, Milton J. Slick, editor of the Mcrccrsburg Journal for thirty-five years and Jus- 
tice of the Peace for a much longer period, has the distinction of being one of Sheridan's escort on 
that famous ride from Winchester to Cedar Creek. 

Mr. Slick relates that as a member of Company A, Seventeenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, he lay all 
the night of the 17th of October at Martinsburg. Next day Sheridan came on from Washington and 
detailed a number of them, between fifty and sixty, to act as his escort. They rode to within a mile of 
Winchester, when the order was given to prepare camp. Sheridan spent the night in Winchester. 

The sound of cannon awakened them early the following morning. They mounted and had not 
proceeded far when they met stragglers from the retreating army ; soon an officer or two appeared. Gen- 
eral Sheridan engaged these in conversation for a short time, then turning he called to his escort, "Boys, 
I'll take the lead now. Follow me." 

Then began that famous ride. Sheridan on his black steed was always in the lead, his escort striv- 
ing to keep pace with him. Mr. Slick was a good rider, and having a fine horse, rode near to "Sheridan 
all the wav from Winchester down to save the day." 

187 



'88 mh MmtxBhnr^ 

The night after that remarkable victory, Mr. Slick was detailed to guard the artillery and wagon 
train. The following morning he assisted in drawing up the artillery before the General's headquar- 
ters. When the work was completed, General Sheridan made them a brief, characteristic speech, punct- 
uated by very sincere cheering. 

Ill 

The Fifteenth Pennsylvania Cavalry, to which James Agnew, a citizen of Mercersburg belonged, 
started from Lincolnton, N. C., to pursue Jeff Davis if it took them across the Mississippi river. For 
eight days and eight nights they were never out of their saddles, except for food. They followed Jef? 
Davis into Georgia, and succeeded in capturing his wagon train near Athens, with valuables, sup- 
posed to be $450,000 in gold and silver, also stocks and bonds (presumably taken from the mint 
at New Orleans). There (Athens) they received orders to remove this rich booty to Augusta, Georgia, 
and General Palmer detailed Captain Henry McAllister and Sergeant James Agnew for this difficult 
and responsible work. They had orders to convey and guard this money (which was packed in cart- 
ridge boxes) by train, to the government authorities at Augusta; which they did in safety. In August, 
igo8, at a reunion of the Fifteenth Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry, General Palmer and Major Mc- 
Allister stated that they had made inquiry at the Treasury Department in Washington some years after 
the war, and were informed that the money from the Augusta Bank had been turned into the Treasury 
Department, and the bonds and stocks returned to the owners. 




Wttobn 1002 

0^HI^ HE children always had a holiday during October. We went in wagons to the mountains, and 
/ '^ found a good supply of nuts, both chestnuts and hickory nuts, waiting to be gathered. 
AIL On the day before this nutting party, a number of men had been in town looking for 

^^^^ horses, ostensibly to supply needs in the army. These men proved to be spies from the Rebel 
camp. We had an early start on this October day and had eaten dinner in Aunt Peggy Offit's 
cabin, when there appeared white men and negroes, horseback and afoot, highly excited and much 
frightened, bringing the news breathlessly, "The Rebels are in Mecersburg!" That enterprising cavalry 
officer, Stuart, determined upon a raid into Pennsylvania. With about 1,500 men under the command 
of General Wade Hampton, he crossed the Potomac at Williamsport, passed through Maryland and 
penetrated into Pennsylvania. 

Coming down a narrow defile in the mountains, into what is known as the "Corner Road," Gen- 
eral Hampton swept everything before him. The farmer saw all his horses, cows, hogs, and sheep 
driven before a force he was utterly unable to resist. 

Upon reaching town (Mercersburg) they invaded the stores and dwellings, taking with them 
everything in the way of food for both man and beast. A number of men were compelled to go with 
them as prisoners. Fortunately, there were not many men in sight ; most of them having enlisted. 

My grandfather had gone early on this day to a farm he owned, situated about half way between 
Chambersburg and Mercersburg. His mount was a fine sorrel colt. When the Rebels entered our 
home in search of the "damned abolitionist," as he was called, you may be sure we rejoiced that 
grandfather was away, but he was not to escape so easily. Just as he rode into the Pike from the 
farm, he saw advancing a vast cavalcade, mounted soldiers, soldiers on foot, horses, wagons, hogs, 
sheep, negroes, etc. The advance guard of this horde being dressed in the unifonn of United States 
soldiers, disarmed his fears for a few moments, but General Hampton and his aide drawing rein, com- 
manded him to dismount. "By what authority?" asked grandfather. "The authority of the Confed- 
erate States," came the quick reply. "I do not acknowledge such authority," came in response. Whip- 
ping out a pistol, holding it against grandfather's breast, his aide placing his hand under grand- 
father's stirrup, quickly dismounted him, throwing him to the ground; and in a few moments the 
fine sorrel was under the saddle of General Hampton and disappeared with the rest of the Rebel army. 
Grandfather made his way to a blacksmith shop nearby, and while sitting there, saw pass before him 
stock from his own farms, and the valuable holdings of his friends. His townsmen, who were being 
carried away as prisoners, made no sign of recognition, so the Confederates allowed the "black aboli- 
tionist" to slip through their fingers. Grandfather reached home late that night, riding a broken down 
horse that some Rebel had abandoned. 

Mercersburg always enjoyed the distinction of celebrating the Fourth of July with more enthu- 
siasm than many of the other towns. A large picnic was the event of the day ; the meeting place 
Buchanan's birthplace. All the town folk and the fanners took their teams, their families and baskets 
of provisions. I can see the tables now as they were spread upon the ground. I remember that Mrs. 
Unger, at the Gap, always had her boiled hams decorated with cloves and red, white and blue paper. 

Cold roast beef, fried chicken, bread, butter, beaten biscuit, apple and custard pies, jam, jelly, 
pickles, boilers of coflfee, freezers of ice cream, buckets of lemonade, cakes of every kind and descrip- 
tion, and all this in such abundance that large and hungry crowds were well filled. 

There were swings for the children, platforms for dancers and music by the band. The orator 
of the day, before commencing his speech, recited the Declaration of Independence. Colonel Shirts 
usually delivered the speech. He was an insignificant man in appearance, but when he launched into 
his Fourth of July address, you were compelled to listen. I do not remember that there were any 
Fourth of July celebrations after the breaking out of the war. 

Mary McNaughton Agnew 
189 



t0 tl|^ ICaii^B 0f iH^rr^rHburg 

^j^JAr AJ. Gen. W. S. Hancock, "Phil., Sept. 29, 1864. 

J jj "Dear Sir : — I have in my possession a very elegant Silk Quilt, made and presented to 

*1F1F1 me by the loyal ladies of Mercersburg, Franklin Co., Penna. At their suggestion, I have 
^^4^1^ had a very handsome sum subscribed for it, with the understanding that the proceeds should 
be paid into the treasury of the 'U. S. Christian Commission,' and the quilt be presented to 
Mrs. Hancock. The purpose of the Ladies, whose suggestion I have tried to carry out, is to evidence 
their recognition and appreciation of the valuable service you have rendered the cause of the 'Union 
and Human Rights,' and at the same time contribute to the resources of an institution whose noble and 
humane efforts to relieve the suffering and comfort the dying soldier, cannot be over-praised. On re- 
ceipt of this you will please give me Mrs. Hancock's address, that I may forward the quilt to her. 
Accept the assurances of my sincere personal regards and believe me. Yours truly, 

James W. C\rson" 

"Headquarters Second Army Corps. "In front of Petersburg, Oct. 19th, 1864. 

"James W. Carson, Esq., 

"My Dear Sir: — I take pleasure in acknowledging the receipt of your letter of the 29 inst. 
Please present my sincere thanks to the Loyal ladies of Mercersburg for their flattering testimonial in 
my behalf. If you will send the Quilt by Adams & Co. express to Mrs. W. S. Hancock, St. Louis, 
Mo., she will doubtless receive it, and will make suitable acknowledgment. Permit me to express my 
high appreciation of the noble efforts of our Loyal ladies, for the benefit of our brave soldiers in the field, 
and the hope that their patriotic endeavors may always meet with the success their merit so truly de- 
serves. I am very truly your obedient Ser'vt, 

"Winf'ld S. Hancock, 
"Maj. Gen'l U. S. Army." 

"Longwood, St. Louis, Mo., Oct., 1864. 
"James W. Carson, Esq., 

"Sir: — It is with mingled pride and pleasure that I acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 
7th inst., and safe arrival of the elegant Silk Quilt which the Loyal Ladies of Mercersburg have so 
flatteringly bestowed upon me. Please express to those ladies for me, and also to the subscribers, how 
grateful I feel for this beautiful testimonial, and how much I appreciate their recognition of the Serv- 
ice my husband has rendered his beloved Country. 

"In conclusion permit me to say how earnestly I wish them success in their noble efforts in behalf 
of our brave and gallant soldiers in the field. I remain, yours with respect, 

"Mrs. W. S. Hancock." 

"To James W. Carson. "Phila., 1864. 

"U. S. Christian Commission. 

"Received of James W. Carson, Esq., Two Hundred Dollars for the United States Christian Com- 
mission, bemg proceeds of Subscription for a Silk Quilt, made by the Ladies of Mercersburg, Pa. 

"James Patterson, Treasurer." 
190 



(§ih MnaxBbnv^ 



191 



^olli«r0 in Qliml Wat from MevcexBbntQ anJi TluutUg 



Agnew, James 
Agnew, Nathaniel 
Alleman, Samuel 
Anderson, O. 
Anderson, John 
Armstrong, Jacob 
Armstrong, Leonard 
Armstrong, John 
Anglemiller, Henry 
Almsley, James 
Baxter, Campbell 
Beck, Samuel 
Beck, Hezekiah 
Beck, David 
Benedick, M. 
Bennett, John 
Black, James 
Boyd, R. 
Brant, Theodore 

Branthaver, 

Bricker, Henry 
Brown, John 
Brownson, Robert 
Brubaker, Peter 
Bradley, Johnston 
Byers, Rufus 
Byers, Edward 
Burke, Wilson 
Bush, John 
Black, Wilson 
Bowles, Angle 
Blattenberger, Jacob 
Brindle, John 
Bowers, George 
Brant, Theodore 
Brewbaker, Patterson 
Brinkley, Wm. 
Bruce, Bryson 
Byers, John 
Burrall, John 
Bowman, George 
Bowman, J. 
Clark, Lemuel 
Cromwell, Samuel 
Cook, P. 
Coyle, David 
Cooper, Jeremiah 
Creager, David 
Curlev, John 
Curtis, A. 
Canter, Jacob 
Campbell, McFarland 
Cole, George 



Creigh, Thomas 
Crilly, Theodore 
Crilly, Washington 
Cushwa, Brewer 
Creamer, Jerry 
Creamer, Frank 
Creamer, George 
Cline, John 
Clingham, Geo. 
Calahan, Philip 
Criswell, John 
Conner, Wilson 
Carson, David 
Dickey, Seth 
Divilbiss, David 
Divilbiss, Jos. 
Doyle, Cornelius 
Drowenberg, John 
Duffield, James 
DeMuth, H. 
Duncan, George 
Eley, Frank 
Eberly, Cecil 
Eckert, John 
Eckman, John 
Eckman, Charles 
Edmonston, George 
Edmonston, H. 
Ernst, Frederick 
Findlay, Robert 
Findlay, Edward 
Ferrenburg, E. 
Fulton, Joseph 
Fritz, Levi 
Gilbert, George 
Green, J. 
Glee, George 
Gorman, James 
Gearhart, C. 
Gearhart, David 
Grier, Michael 
Graham, John 
Grosh, David 
Gans, Samuel 
Garrett, B. 
Greeher, Henry 
Good, J. 
Hadderman, M. 
Houck, Christian 
Hammil, A. 
Henkle, George 
Hornbraker, John 
Hornbraker, Samuel 



Holstone, William 
Hospelhorn, William 
Izer, Ezra 
King, John 
Kuhn, Noah 
Kreps, Michael 
Lesher, Thomas 
Lightner, John 
McClellan, Wm. 
McFarland, John 
McAllister, Andrew 
McLaughlan, D. 
McCune, W. B. 
McCune, W. P. 
McCormack, John 
McClellan, Robert 
McClellan, Hayes 
McConnell, G. 
McDowell, W. 
McDowell, A. 
McGlaughlin, D. 
Murray, E. 
Myers, G. 
Myers, Jacob 
Myers, Andrew 
Myers, Lightner 
Miller, David 
Mosser, George 
Metcalfe, Thomas 
Metcalfe, T. 
Mowery, Jacob 
Miller, John 
Murray, M. 
Murphy, Wm. 
Murphy, Alex 
Miller, C. 
Mowen, Dallas 
McCune, John 
McConnell, James 
McDonald, George 
McDonald, David 
McCullough, James 
McCullough, Arch 
McCutcheon, Robert 
McClellan, Adam 
McFerren, Samuel 
McKinstry, William 
McGlaughlin, N. 
McLucas, Wm. 
Orth, John 
Oyler, Henry 
Parker, Thompson 
Parker, Oliver 



Patton, James 
Pensinger, W. 
Pensinger, Thomas 
Potter, Zachary 
Pine, Wm. 
Pittman, John 
Potter, Henry 
Prondfeit, John 
Palmer, G. 
Patterson, Samuel 
Reitzel, S. 
Ritchey, John 
Rhodes, John 
Reitzel, Geo. 
Reese, Jeremiah 
Rodgers, John 
Rankin, Watson 
Reed, Charles 
Ripple, Josiah 
Ross, Adam 
Ridenhour, Wm. 
Rothrauf, David 
Smith, Findlay 
Swisher, Jacob 
Small, Robert 
Sharar, David 
Sharar, Jacob 
Small, Edward 
Shirts, Robert 
Seibert, Luther 
Selsor, William 
Shrader, J. 
Sillick, Geo. 
Shultz, Nicholas 
Shorts, Harry 
Shatzer, John 
Shatzer, K. 
Shatzer, E. 
Starliper, Wm. 
Starliper, P. 
Stoner, Frank 
Slick, Milton 
Scott, George 
Scully, David 
Secrist, Jacob 
Skinner, W. 
Socks, John 
St. Clair, Thompson 
St. Clair, Martin 
St. Clair, John 
Stine, Henry 
Stitt, W. 
Stokes, S. 



192 



Wih MtmrBbm^ 



Straley, Nicholas 
Stine, John 
Tibbey, James 
Trout, Nicholas 
Trout, Upton 
Trout, Madison 
Trout, Elim 



Trout, Jacob 
Tracy, David 
Thomas, John 
Thomas, Christopher 
Unger, David 
Work, Huston 



Winters, Washington 
Winters, S. 
Woodring, D. 
Wilkins, George 
Werdebaugh, William 
Williams, J. 



Winters, John 
Weiler, Albert 
Walt, W. 
Wolfe, David 
Wolfe, Henry Clay 
Zimmerman, J. 



Mtn in (Hoafelinats ^riaotta 



Harry Shorts 
John Mowry 
John Hughs 
John Cur ley 



Perry Rice 



John Harvey 
Henry Hornbaker 
A. A. Myers 
Samuel Winters 



G. G. Rupley 



Soldiers 

Wm. Starliper 
Wm. Walker 
Jacob Divilbiss 

Civilians 

Daniel Shaffer 



Jacob Rhodes 
Wm. Ridenhour 
Washington Crilly 



Joseph Winger 



(Halareb Balhms 



Aston, William 
Alexander, Thomas 
Barnes, Ramsey 
Barnes, Bill Hen 
Burgess, Joseph 
Burgess, William 
Burgess, H. 
Burgess, Edward 
Brown, Thomas 
Brown, Wm. 
Butler, Alexis 
Butler, Stephen 
Carson, Eli 
Carson, Arthur 
Caution, Samuel 



Cristy, Samuel 
Cristy, John 
Cristy, Joseph 
Cuflf, George 
Cuff, Nathaniel 
Cuff, Thomas 
Cuflf, David 
Cuflf, Archibald 
Crunkleton, Wesley 
Campbell, Solomon 
Darks, Dennis 
Davis, John 
Demas, Jacob 
Demas, George 
Good, John 



Harris, Benjamin 
Harrison, Isaac 
Hall, George 
Imes, Henry 
Johnson, Reuben 
Keith, Thomas 
■Keith, Wm. 
Lane, George 
McCullough, Thomas 
Offit, Michael 
Offit, George 
Parker, James 
Ridout, James 
Slvder, Tom 



Stoner, Newton 
Stoner, Robert, Sr. 
Stoner, Robert 
Stoner, John 
Stoner, James 
Stoner, Nathaniel 
Teal, Jeflferson 
Watson, Jacob 
Watson, Parker 
Watson, Hezekiah 
Watson, Wm. 
Watson, Henry 
Webster, Wm. 
Young, Wm. 



Old Mercersburg. 

The name of Samuel North 
of Co. C, 126th Regiment was 
omitted from the list of sol- 
diers through a mistake of the 
printer. Great difficulty was 
found in making up this list 
although a request was made 
through the local paper for 
help in doing it. 

The Committee will be glad 
to receive the names of any 
who may have been omitted 
so that the register may be 
made complete. 

Committee. 



^■nr HE subject of this sketch is not to be confounded with that eminent prelate, Philips Brooks ; 
/ -4 nor with the late Dr. Aronld, of Rugby fame; nor yet with the notorious Benedict 
1 P L Arnold. The student of biography is merely invited to take a brief glance at a much 
^^^ more humble phase of life as it is exemplified in that remarkable Afro-American citizen, 
Aronld Brooks. 

If biography is properly a department of history, it may fairly be said that a faithful account of 
life among the lowly is as truly biography as the written lives of eminent persons. Indeed, true 
biography, as Macaulay shows, should be a history not solely of kings or similar personages, but of 
the people also over whom they rule. 

However humble Arnold Brooks may have been, he had nevertheless, traits of character and a per- 
sonality far enough above the ordinary to attract the attention of many eminent persons in his day. 

The great Lincoln Gladstone, Dr. Oliver Wendall Holmes and other eminent men, had the distinc- 
tion of being born in the same year with Arnold Brooks, whose birth occurred March 17, 1809. 

As a young man he began to gain prominence about the time of the founding of Marshall Col- 
lege at Mercersburg, in 1836. He had then become a stage driver and general master of horse in the 
great livery business of that day. The fearlessness of Arnold Brooks, his general good nature and 
his affection for and kind treatment of the horses under his charge, as well as his solicitude for the 
safety and comfort of his passengers, soon gained for him the complete confidence of his employers. 

The Rev. Dr. Theodore Appel, in his "College Recollections," writes : "Arnold Brooks, a tall, 
muscular negro, full of talk, afraid of nothing by day or night, was chief coachman, who could drive 
his coach, full of students into or out of town according to the most approved rules. He was a hero 
much admired by the students as well as by his brethren.'' 

The Rev. Dr. Benjamin Bausman tells how, "Colonel Murphy's cozy hotel was crowded with 
strangers from near and from far. Brooks, his tall, faithful, negro hostler, haw-hawed with broad- 
est grin as friend after friend handed his horse and carriage over to him. Everybody that came to 
commencement in a private conveyance learned to know Brooks. Although his patrons saw him 
but once a year, he being a sort of doorkeeper, not only to Colonel Murphy's stable, but on commence- 
ment day to all Mercersburg, everybody made him show his snow-white teeth with the hearty salutation, 
'How are you, Brooks?' Commencement week was Brooks' harvest season, and well he knew and 
well he deserved it." 

The above paragraph has reference to the time when Arnold had retired from his position as 
regular stage driver ; for he had outlived the age when four-horse stage coaches were required, and 
his high idea of the dignity of his profession led him to retire from the service before it dwindled 
down to a common two-horse machine. 

To him a silver dollar was a wheel. So his friends and patrons of the hotel and stage line who 
tipped him on occasion were classified and well known as "wheelmen, half-wheelmen, and quarter- 
wheelmen." I do not know that he had any special designation for those below quarter-wheelmen. 

Arnold was generous to a fault, and improvident as many of his race are, so that in his declin- 
ing years he found it necessary sometimes to call upon his friends for assistance. 

It was not often, however, that he appealed in vain to his friends of better days. On September 
II, 1865, he received from Thomas A. Scott, by Adams Express, "a suit of clothes according to the 
measure sent, with the hope that the selection will please you." And again in 1870 Mr. Scott's priv- 
ate .secretary wrote : "Mr. Scott desires me to send you $20, which you will please find enclosed." 

Arnold Brooks, while not irreligious in his speech or conduct, found considerable amusement in 
playing upon the fears and superstitions of his colored brethren, especially the younger portion. On 
the subject of ghosts he was wont to thrill his hearers with the recital of the manner in which he 

193 



194 O^Ui MmtxBbwcQ 

would return to earth to haunt the living for weal or woe according as they had treated him while 
yet in the flesh. So deeply did he impress his brethren on this subject that even to this day some of 
them cannot be induced to visit his grave after the evening shadows have gathered. And there is a 
noticeable absence of colored hands about the old Mansion House stables on dark and stormy nights 
when weird sounds are heard that may not be merely the creaking of rusty hinges or the clanking of 
halter chains. 

Not long before Arnold's death there came a traveling artist who painted a portrait of the old 
negro, and for a number of years this picture hung above the hotel office door, which opened into 
the bar room. It was highly prized by the proprietor of the hotel, and in some respects it was a re- 
markable production. The colored people who frequented the place, declared that the eyes of Brooks 
followed them as they passed across the room ; and this innocent painting or rather the spirit of Ar- 
nold Brooks which hovered about it, deterred many a thirsty body from co-mingling with the spirits 
within the doorway. The limit of forbearance was reached one day when a negro brave, entering 
the hotel office from the bar room, happened to glance into the mirror that hung on the wall opposite 
to the portrait, and distinctly saw the venerable negro move from side to side on the canvas. It was 
useless to argue that the opening of the door might have shaken the mirror, and that according to a 
well known law of mathematics, the portrait reflected in it would appear to move from side to side. 
This was too much, and the picture had to come down for business as well as superstitious reasons. 
The painting has long since disappeared, and is supposed to have been burned. 

On the 24th day of February, 1873, after a brief sickness, during which he declared he was willing 
and ready to go, the old negro was gathered unto his fathers. That he had the shortcomings and 
grievous faults common to our humanity it is scarcely necessary to affirm, but in the eyes of a boy 
ten years of age, who was assuming to see things in their correct proportions — who did not hesi- 
tate to render right judgments — Arnold Brooks was the ideal hostler, stage driver, philosopher and 
friend. 

This brief sketch may suggest, if nothing more, a rich field for some of our capable historians — 
that of the old taverns and stage coach lines. If some one would only picture for us these scenes, such 
for instance as when 

"The Old Stage Coach Comes In 

"As even now I pause and close mine eyes, 
The scenes of years agone before me rise : 

"The old stone tavern with its swinging sign, 
The crowd of boys along the curbstone line, 

"The loafers too in goodly numbers there — 
And all with eager and expectant air. 

"The stage coach running late with heavy load. 
Is heard with rumbling sound upon the road. 

"Then down the village street the swaying light 
From mud-splashed lantern glimmers through the 
night. 

"Anon with clattering hoofs the horses come; 
The coach with pondrous swing and wheels a-hum 

"Is drawn 'round the old town pump and post, 
While with a nod to passengers and host, 

"Down from the boot the driver steps with pride 
And hastens forward to his leader's side. 



(§ih MntnBhnv^ 



195 



"He strokes the steaming flank, he pats the nose, 
And thus to all the four in turn he goes. 

"Mine host, the traveler, loafers, boys and all. 
Behold with pride, this Jehu lank and tall, 

"And watch his every move with kindly looks. 
For he who brought the old coach in was Arnold 
Brooks." 

Linn Harbaugh. 




lExtrartja Jrnm tij^ Sl^&g^r of i^amu^l Jtninlag 



1774 



3 



ROM the Ledger of Samuel Findlay, father of Governor William Findlay; said Ledger F 
covers the years 1774-75-76, with some entries as late as 1781. 

Out of five hundred accounts, the following names were selected for the reason that 
many of their descendants are today living in and around Old Mercersburg. 



Bryan Coyle 
James Rankin 
Jeremiah Rankin 
Doctor Johnston 
Thos. Johnston 
David Huston 
Capt. Wm. Huston 
John McClelland 
Wm. McClelland 
John Wray 
Robert McFarland 
Josiah McKinney 
James Dickey 
Wm. Dickey 
James Irwin 
Archibald Irwin 
John McDowell 
James McDowell 
Wm. Waddle 
Wm. Gillespy 
James McCullough 
Francis Patterson 
James Murphy 
John Hamilton 
John Davison 
Wm. Smith, Sr. 
Wm. Smith, Jr. 
Abraham Smith 



Samuel McCune 
Joseph Cook 
Wm. Robison 
Hardy Hill 

Wm. McConnell, Esq. 
James Maxwell, Esq. 
Robert Semple, Esq. 
Alexander Buchanan 
Samuel Sloan, Esq. 
John Kendal 
James McKinley 
Andrew Findlay 
Wm. Findlay 
James Carson 
Wm. Carson 
Evan Philips 
James Stewart 
Adam McConnell, Sr. 
Owen Williams 
Oiarles Forster 
Ephraim Blaine 
Jesse James 
John Shelby 
"Wm. West 
Col. James Herrod 
Rev. James Long 
Rev. John Black 
Rev. John King 



Rev. Thos. McFerran 
Thos. Crossin 
Wm. Hart 
John Blair 
Thos. Wilkins 
John Walker 
James Wilson 
Timothy Shearer 
James Ramsey 
Wm. Hays 
John Boyd 
David Barr 
Anthony Lawson 
Jacob Kersner 
James Scott 
James Patton 
Joshua Elder 
Wm. Alexander 
Thomas Kenedy 
Peter January 
John Shannon 
Dr. Henry Schnebly 



Daniel Royer 
Johnston Elliott 
Wm. Duffield 
James Davis 
Nathaniel Martin 
Capt. Wm. Marshal 
Cone'U Benj. Davis 
Philip Gilliland 
James Arthur 
Benj. Jolly 
Thos. Dunwoody 
Robert Newell 
Malcolm McFall 
Lazarus Timons 
Asa Brownson 
Benj. Kidd 
James Murphy 
John McCracken 
Samuel Gettys 
Moses Latta 
Augustus Balla 
John Mortimer 



Peter Rooney 
Robert Smith (Welsh Run) 
David Moore (School Master) 
Dugal Campbell (School Master) 
Thos. Stephenson (School Master) 
Bartholomew Longstreatch 



irrs 

£ 

To Sundry Articles for a Bonnet o 

By Making a Bonnet for Mrs. Brown o 

To 6 Tea Spoons pr. Joice o 

To Rem'nt Bonnet Stuff pr. Daughter o 

To Linnen, Silk Mits, Buttons, pr. Wife i 

To Pewter, Flowered Stuff & sund's i 

To I pr. Mockasins for Darling o 

To 2j^ yds. Taffetty @ 12 p pr. Sisters i 

To 8 yds. Camblet @ 2 s f or Betty o 

196 



s 


P 


4 
2 


7 
6 


I 





I 


I 


8 





17 


10 


3 
8 





16 











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FAC-SIMILE OK BII.I, FROM THE LEDGER OF SAMUEL FLVDLAV 



®Ui MttmBbvLVQ »97 



i S P 

To Sundry Goods pr. Miss Kitty lo 7 loj^ 

To Sundry Goods pr. Miss Peggy i 5 6 

To Sattin & Sundries pr. Wife o 19 6 

To I Pint Rum pr. Sister — for a snake bite o i o 

To I Fine Hatt & Trimmings for Dr 2 4 o 

To yi Sheet of Pins o i o 

To Pasteboard & Green Network o i 2 

To I Woman's Saddle & Bridle 7 17 3 

To Bottom Stuff for Marey's Shoes o 11 o 

AprU 1775 

To Rum, 1-3 To Club at Dunwoody's o 2 3 

To Cash at the Springs o 19 10 

Stephen Mackey is Charged to Drink got from Robt. Smith, Wm. 

Smith, and Jno. Maxwell at the Race Ground o 8 10 

To Plush for Breeches and Trimmings i 3 6 

To Club in Slings o i o 

To I Doz'n Glass-Top-d Buttons 

To the Newes peapers 134 year at 10 o 15 o 

To I Hatt pr. Billy o 6 o 

To I Oz. of Snuff o o 6 

To I Sling 6 d 006 

To Grog o o 3 

To I Bowl of Toddy o o 9 

To I Double Bowl Toddy o 2 o 

To I Primer & Rum o i 2 

To I Whip, Rum, & Camphire o 7 8 

To I Silver Headed, Woman's Whip o 12 6 

To Rum, Necklace, Toddy, &c o 6 i 

To I Catechism o o ^ 

To II Gallons W. India Rum 2 9 6 

To I pr. Buckles pr. Samuel o i o 

To 2 Bibles" Knife 9/ o 11 9 

To Club with Comitee o 3 o 

To I Lashing Rope o 3 o 

To Club in Sangaree 1/ o i o 

To 2 Question Books, Rum & Whiskey o 2 4 

To a Testament o 2 3 

To Dressing a Dog Skin o 3 o 

To Jack Cards & Sundries 2 9 3 

To Scarlet Broad Cloth, Velveree, &c 2 16 61^ 

To I Silk Jacket i i q 

To a Blind Cow got some time ago 3 o o 

On March 4, 1776, Abram Smith is chained: 

To a Ribbon given a Recruit o i 3 

In August, 1775, James Johnston is Dr. 

To Broadcloth, vs. Sundry Uniforms 9 14 3 

To Ribbon, for Cockead o 2 5 

To a Regimental Hatt 2 o o 

To I Riffle Gun to be paid in 2 months 5 o o 

To Shott, Flints, Knifes, Toddy, &c o 5 2 

On January 10, 1776: 

To Cash pd. the Post for Carriage of Powder o i 6 

To a Silver Hilted Sword (Archibald Irwin) 8 o o 



198 (§Ui MnaxBhur^ 

£ S P 

To Cash pd. the Post for Carrying Letter o i 6 

By a Bayonett O 2 6 

By a Muskett i i6 o 

By a Great Coat left in pledge (May 31, 1776) 

By the above Coat, sold at Vendue i 7 6 

Dec. 1774 — By Cash given you to buy Hides — 12 Dollars 4 10 o 

Jan. 1775 — To Cut Money 3 15 o 

Jan. 1775 — To 2 Dollars of Cut Silver o 15 o 

Mch 1776 — To Cash £100, Virginia Cash 125 o o 

Mch 1774 — By a Piece of Gold called a Doubloon, marked on the sides, 

dated 1719, received from James McClellan, for 5 5 6 

1781— By Cash, 6 hard Dollars 2 5 o 

By Cash, 4J/2 Johannes 12 o o 

To 2 half Johannes — or half Joes 6 o o 

To 2 Guineas @ 35 3 10 o 

To 1 ,000 Congrass Dollars 375 o o 

To I Gun pr. John Linn i 10 o 

To I quart for Denny 

To 2 gallons Rum o 8 o 

To I Drinking Glass o o 8 

To 12 pains of Glass at 10 6 o o 

To I Brass Lock, 43/2 Bowls Punch, pipes o 8 i 

To 2 Rolls Tobacco @ 10 o i 8 

To I Bell Collar o i 6 

To Swanskin, Rum & Toddy o 8 6 

To a pr. shoes for Bob 

To Cash pd. Davis for a Sadie Tree for Johny Findlay o 3 o 

To a Woman's Sadie Tree got for the use of Martha Irwin (Dec. 

23. '73) o 16 6 

To Taylors Sheers, Horse at Hay, &c o 9 8 

To Breakfast 6d gill 3d O O 9 

To 2 Play Books o i o 

To I Reading Made Easy o i 8 

To I Exercise Book o o 9 

To I Manuel Exercise, jA of yrs. Crisis o i 4 

To Expenses at Settling the Township's books o 12 6 

Samuel Findlay Dr. to Rev. John King, i year's Stipend i 10 O 

Samuel Findlay, paid Wm. Robison (Tanner) for 4 yrs. and i month's 

work— at £36 pr. year 147 o o 

Paid for i month's attending the store 2 o o 

Paid Joshua Elder for making 5 surveys for Findlay & Ramsey — @ £4 

each .' 20 o o 

Paid David Moore for attendance at Store 25 o o 

Jfpgro Arrnuttta 

Mr. Maxwell's Cato David Huston's Sam 

David Davis's George Mr. Maxwell's Dick 

Black Jean 

QlntUra 

By Carriage 15 bushels salt, 20 lbs. Tea from Baltimore i 12 4 

By £4. Virginia Cash 5 o o 

By 1-8 Pound Virginia Bill — per James McKinley 10 o o 



®Ui mpmraburg 



199 



£ S P 

By Butter left to make Oyl o i o 

By I pr. Bad Waggon Wheels i 15 o 

By a Buckskin o 10 o 

By a Tierce of Whiskey, Note it wanted 3 inches of being full — 63^ 

gallons @ 2-9 8 14 "jYi 

By 4 Gammons of Venison o 6 5 

By Wagoenage from Philadelphia 235 o o 

By Weaving some time ago o 3 4 

By I hhd. cyder 2 o o 

By Dry Apples & Sowing o 3 o 

By I Murrain Hide & Calfskin o 11 2>4 

Robert Smith Jr. is credited — 

By your part of 90 Dear Skins sold at 8 18 o o 

By the one-half of 16 Dear Skins 3 4 o 

^atmala la^b in UX% 

Pocket Fustian Tow Linnen Sagathy Anteloon 

Hasy Holland Sheetting Dowlass Flowered Mode 

Velveree Smoth Linnen Mather Bengal 

Green Orrice Bolt of Bobbing Soal & Upper Leathers Jeanett 

Shaloon Tammy Durant Stick of Hair 

Oznabrigs Persian Brazeel Dimitty 

Checker Sarsanett Wilton 

Aprasement of the Good and Chatels of Catharen Phillops Deceised, at the Request of Joshua 

Phillops. Dun by Enoch and Benj. Williams, Febury the 23, year 1791. 

Two Cows 7 o o 

One Woman's Sadie 3 o o 

One Ewe 076 

One Kittle o 5 o 

One Skillet 026 

One Putar Dish 050 

To three Putar Beasons o 7 o 

One olde Whele 026 

One olde Reel o i 6 

One Pair of Cloth Shuse 050 

One Clock 039 

One Feather Bed and Bed Close that is one Quilt, one Covarlid and 

two Blankits, Bolstar and Pillows and the Covar Sheate praised to 5 o o 

One StuflE gound o 15 o 

To one olde Blu Linsy Gound o 7 6 

Two Knew Linsy Petecots i o o 

Two half woren bt o 10 o 

Two olde Dt o 2 6 

One olde Brown Sceart o 2 6 

One Blu Linsy Bed gound o 2 o 

One Striped Short gound o 3 o 

One White Dt 020 

Eight wimins Caps o 2 6 

Two Hanckercheafs and a olde Scet o i 6 

To one olde Silk Bonit o o 6 

The within is Dun to the Best of our Skill and knolage as witness our hands this the 23d of 

Febury, yr. 1791. 

Enoch Williams, 
Benj. Williams. 



(0Ui MnmBbnvQ 



Sir Be plesd to pay Joshua Philips the Sum of Nine Shillings and thre pens which you owe Me 
and in So Doeing you will a Blige your Humbel Sarvt. 

August, 15 — 1795. Gorge McCollough 

®aUf nf AUpgtanrp 

I DO hereby Certify, That 
Eaven Phillips 
Hath voluntarily taken and subscribed the OATH of Allegiance and Fidelidy, as directed by an 
ACT of General Assembly of Pennsylvania, passed the 13th Day of June, A. D. 1777. Witness my 
Hand and Seal the i8th Day of May, A. D. 1778. No. 154. 

(Seal) Thomas Paxton 

Qivija Aimprtiafn«nta from iFranklin appnattnrg, ©rtoh^r 2B. 1823 

Dr. James P. Scott, 

Ofifers his professional services to the citizens of Mercersburg, and its vicinity. His shop is in the 
room formerly occupied by James Buchanan, Esquire, as a Store. 

Mercersburg, Oct. 6, 1823. 

Dr. E. G. McGovern, 

Tenders his thanks to the citizens of Loudon and its vicinity, for past friendship, and hereby ofifers 
his professional services to the citizens of Mercersburg, and its vicinity, where he intends making a 
permanent residence and may be consulted at his Shop, formerly the shop of Dr. Wm. Magaw. 

Mercersburg, Oct. 7, 1823. 



Mercersburg, Oct. 26th, 1823. 

Strljarii Arrl^ibali larb. ir. 
To 

1 Sketch Book $4.50 

2 Vol. French 2.50 

2 Vol. Morgan's Italy 2.50 

2 Vol. Peloponnesian War 2.50 



Mercersburg, 20th Sept., 1828. 

Reed of Miss Catherine Philips twenty-three and a half pounds butter at 8c $2.28 

And 4 doz. eggs at 5c 20 

T^ , $2.48 
Deduct %c Powder I2i/^ 



$2.3S>4 
E. T. Lane 



mh MnnrBbntQ 



201 



SI 



O one Bunch Curls $i -SO 

To one Leghorn Flat 9.00 

To one Tortoise Comb 2.50 

To one Extra Leghorn Crown 2.i2j/^ 

To one Piece Yellow Nankeen i.oo 

Mishionary Subr 5° 

To Redding Room Subr 5-°o 

To 6 Lytes Glass o6'A 

To I Elegant watterloo Shawl 3.50 

To I qt. French Brandy 50 

To I qt. Maddirah Wine 75 

To I Crape Dress 450 

To I Sprigg Muslin 50 

To I pr. Silk Stockings i.oo 

To I Large Parrasawl 2.75 

To Drabb Pantaloons & Trimmings 6.00 

To I White Crape Robe 7.50 

To >4 Millinett 16 

To j4 yd- Cassinett 25 

To I yd. Tartain Plaid SO 

To 8^ yds. Shambury, 18 1-4 1.64 

To 4 yds. Bumbezett, 31 1-4 1.25 

To I Redicule 1.25 



2Cpgro Arrounta 



Black Charles (Irwin's) 
Black Kitty 

Black Ceaser (Dicky's Miller) 
Negro Joe of C. Kilgore 
Ceaser Johnston (negro) 
John Caution (negro) 
Black Jean 



Black Lot 

Benjamin Brooks per Son Arnold 

Seaser McGraw (negro) 

Ceaser Watson 

Jack Belt (negro) 

Black Dine, Jack Belt's wife 



40 Dollars Reward 

Runaway from the subscriber on Saturday evening, the 12th inst., a negro man commonly called 
Tom Collins, aged about 43 years, 5 feet, 1 1 inches high, of slim make, pretty black, forehead runs far 
back, hair short and nappy, and his feet large and projecting outward. Said negro is supposed to be 
in company with two other nmaways, lurking in the neighborhood of Mercersburg, Pa. Whoever 
takes and delivers him to me or lodge him in the nearest jail, so that I can get him again, shall receive 
the above reward. Henry M. Nichols. 

Beddington, Berkeley Co., Va. 



202 



(§ih MntnBhm^ 



Sflj^ Unmati^B Qllub 



0^tf HE Woman's Club of Mercersburg was organized July 6, 1909, with the following officers ; 
I I L Mrs. H. W. Byron, President Mrs. H. S. Waidlich, Treasurer 

Mrs. S. G. Rupley, Vice-President Mrs. H. H. Spangler, Secretary 



Membership to 191 i 



Mrs. H. W. Byron Mrs. 
Mrs. George A. StoufferMrs. 

Mrs. R. B. Varden Mrs. 

Miss North Mrs. 

Miss Parker Mrs. 

Miss Swartz Mrs. 

Mrs. D. F. linger Mrs. 

Mrs. A. R. Schnebly Mrs. 

Miss Anna M. Fallon Mrs. 

Mrs. H. H. Spangler Mrs. 

Mrs. Seth Dickey Miss 

Miss McKinstr)' Mrs. 

Miss Bessie Rhea Mrs. 

Miss Boyd Miss 

Mrs. James Walker Mrs. 

Mrs. J. Z. Faust Mrs. 

Mrs. H. H. Brewer Mrs. 

Mrs. Martin Myers Mrs. 

Mrs. W. C. Grove Mrs. 

Mrs. J. H. Miller Miss 

Miss Creigh Mrs. 

Mrs. E. L. Brewbaker Mrs. 

Mrs. J. T. Rhea Mrs. 
Mrs. J. W. Witherspoon Miss 



D. W. Ott Mrs. 

J. V. Rover Mrs. 

John Steiger Miss 

D. M. Keller Miss 

Henry Spangler Mrs. 

H. L. Waidlich Mrs. 

S. W. North Mrs. 

D. F. Metcalfe Mrs. 

C. R. McKinstry Miss 

J. L. Finafrock Miss 

Agnes Rhea Mrs. 

H. B. Atkinson Mrs. 

W. Winters Mrs. 

Ella McDonald Miss 

J. A. Philips Miss 

J. S. Bristor Mrs. 

W. M. Irvine Mrs. 
Henri L. G. KiefferMrs. 

J. E. Harmes Mrs. 

McDowell Miss 

B. E. Nevin Miss 

J. M. Drumm Miss 

A. H. Rutledge Miss 

Rebecca Agnew Mrs. 



D. W. Faust 
J. C. Rankin 
Mary Johnston 

E. D. Craig 
J. G. Rose 

T. O. Martin 
b. S. Stouffer 
S. G. Rupley 
Hannah Forster 
Nell North 
Wm. Unger 
J. H. Witter 
M. C. Shaffer 
Christina Wolfe 
Mary Winters 
T. R. Clapsaddle 
Charles Selsor 
James Boyd 
Caleb Philips 
Elizabeth Brewer 
Anna F. Fallon 
Maud Long 
Harriet Murray 
Wm. Selsor 



Mrs. C. F. Fendrick 
Miss N. B. Rupley 
Mrs. J. S. Swartzwelder 
Mrs. H. B. Krebs 
Mrs. J. E. Miller 
Miss Patterson 
Miss Kate Steiger 
Mrs. H. S. Waidhch 
Mrs. A. L. Hazelbarth 
Miss Blanche Unger 
Miss Hannah McDonald 
Miss Lauderbaugh 
Miss Margaret Rupley 
Miss Mary Witherspoon 
Mrs. C. Edgar Fallon 
Mrs. John Eckert 
Mrs. D. F. Wills 
Mrs. F. W. Bald 
Mrs. W. C. Long 
Miss Jennie Jordan 
Miss Anna Bradley 
Miss Alice Bush 
Miss Mary Jordan 



m 



mh MnavBbnxQ 203 

1911 

RS. H. B. Atkinson, Millinery W. D. Byron & Sons, Inc., Tanners of Oak 

Leather 

Dr. John L. Bradley, Veterinarian J. A. Boyd, Hardware 

Conn Bros., Department Store J. H. Comerer, Restaurant 

F. J. Diffenderffer, Merchant C. E. Daub, Restaurant 

Henry Bender, Established 1867, Cabinet Maker John L. Eckert, Established 1868, Carriage Manu- 

C. H. Fallon, Established 1868, Hardware, Ma- facturer 

chinery 

D. W. Faust & Sons, Lumber and Building Sup- C. F. Fendrick, Grain & Coal 

plies 

Miss Annie Fresholtz, Established 1863, Restaur- H. L. Gish, Flour Mill (The Oldest Town Indus- 
ant try) 

W. E. Gluck, Dairy Dr. D. B. Grosh, Established 1867, Dentistry 

W. G. Grove, Restaurant Hege & Myers, Drygoods 

John N. Hoch, Butcher & Stock Dealer Albert Hoffeditz, Garage 

Hoover & Cump, Moving Pictures Dr. J. A. Keepers, Dentistry 

H. B. Krebs, Druggist J. H. Kreps, Undertaker. 

Dr. J. M. Kuhn, Veterinarian & Druggist Lancaster & Keller, Creamery 

H. L. Lenherr, Photographer D. J. Lininger, Undertaker 

Mrs. W. C. Long, Millinery Long & Grove, Barbers 

D. McCune, Groceries William F. McDowell, Postmaster 

Hotel Mercer, Chas. W. McLaughlin, Proprietor The Mercersburg Academy for Boys, William 

Mann Irvine, Ph. D., LL. D., President 

Mercersburg Journal, Established 1843, George A. Metcalfe Bros., Shoes & Hats 

Fleming, Editor and Proprietor 

J. H. Miller, Jeweller D. L. Myers, Bakery 

Ed. B. Myers, Barber D. W. Ott, Groceries 

D. Caleb Philips, Printer & Stationer J. A. Philips, Seed Merchant 

Rhea Bros., Drygoods G. W. Rockwell, Five & Ten Cent Store 

S. G. Rupley, Established 1843, Stoves & Tinware Chas. I. Selser, Furniture 

John S. Shaffer, Merchant Tailor M. C. Shaffer, Merchant Tailor 

W. E. Shaffer, Electrical Contractor Smith Bros., Harness & Saddlery 

F. B. Smith, General Merchandise J. M. Smith, Blacksmith 

J. F. Snyder, Wagons & Farm Machinery H. H. Spangler, Attomey-at-Law 

Steiger Bros., Established 1855, Butchers and Geo. A. Stouffer, Groceries 

Stock Dealers J. S. Swartzwelder, M. D. 

D. F. Unger, M. D., Established 1870 D. W. Unger, Lumber 

The Mansion House, W. T. Vanderan, Proprietor H. L. Waidlich, Established 1857, Builder & Con- 
C. A. Whitmore, Bakery tractor 

J. P. Wilkins, Barber John W. Witherspoon, Grain & Coal 

G. L. Wolf, General Merchandise Peter Wolfe, Merchant 

The Captain James P. McCullough Army Post The Conococheague Electric Light, Heat & Power 
The Farmers' Bank Co. 

The First National Bank The Waynesboro, Greencastle & Mercersburg 
The Woman's Club Turnpike Road Co. 



Snhtx 



Jn&^x 



Abbott, John 33 

John W 140 

Prof 50 

Academy, see Mercersburg and 
"Old Stone." 

Acheson, Archibald 183 

Elizabeth 183 

Margaret 183 

Thomas 183 

Ackers, J. Benson (Rev.) 139 

Adams, Furman (Rev.) 139 

Mabel 139 

Martha C 139 

William 139 

African Methodist Church 43 

Agnew, David 47 

D. Hayes 67 

James 41, 188, 191 

John (Rev.) 148 

Mrs. Mary McN 7,189 

Nathaniel 191 

Rebecca 202 

Alban 158 

Albert, Mrs 46 

Alexander, J. E 50 

Margaret 123 

Thomas 192 

William 196 

AUeman 129 

Samuel 191 

Allen, John 55 

Allison, Doctor 27 

Almsley, James 191 

Anderson, John 35, 191 

191 

Andrew, John 183 

Andrews, Margaret 126,183 

Sarah 48,183 

Angle, John 36 

AnglemlUer, Henry 191 

Appel. John W 114 

Thomas (Dr.) 50 

Thomas Gilmore (Dr.) 

Ill, 112. 113, 115 
Theodore (Dr.) 5. 34, 39. 43, 
45, 78, 90, 102, 133, 137, 193 

William N 7 

Archer. John 24 

Armstrong, George 46 

Jacob 191 

John 191 

John (Col.) 23, 25 

Leonard 191 

Rebecca 43 

Arnot, Andrew 125 

Arthur, James 196 

Aston, William 192 

Atkinson. H. B. (Mrs.) 202.203 

Auginbaugh, George W. (Dr.). 45, 96 

Bachtel, M. M. (Rev.) 129 

Bahn, Elizabeth 131 

Jacob 41 

James 34 

Maria 131 

Baird, Thomas 20, 32 

Baker, Sarah 115 

Bald, F. W. (Mrs.) 202 

Balla, Augusta 196 

Bard, Archibald 33, 67,123 

Catherine 67 

Isaac 123 

Kitty 124 

Levy 123 

Matty 124 

Richard 67 

Richard A 200 

Robert M 106 

Thomas 124 



Bard, Thomas (Capt.) 32 

Thomas R. (Hon.) 7 

Family History 5 

Store 34, 38 

Barnes, Bill Hen 192 

Ramsey 192 

Barnthiesel, John 134 

Barnthiesels 39 

Mathlas 40 

Barr. David 196 

Mary 122 

Baxter, Campbell 191 

William 33 

Baughy. Rev 129 

Bausman, D. Benj 96, 135,193 

Beale, William 73 

Beall, Anna 112 

Bechdolt, Prof 60 

Beck Home, the 46 

Beck, David 191 

Hezekiah 191 

Samuel 191 

Beggs, Joseph 124 

Bender, Henry 203 

Benedick, M 191 

Bennett Home, the 47 

Bennet, Irvln 31 

James 32, 39, 159 

John 35,191 

Berg, Joseph F. (Rev.) 137 

Besore, George 49 

Bester, Minnie Fendrick (Mrs.).. 7 

Bezan, George 46 

Jacob 46 

Bigger, John 123 

Martha 122, 123 

Nancv 124 

Biggert, Hannah 123 

Marv 123 

Black Boy 20, 53, 54 

Black. James ..19, 27, 28, 35, 37,191 

James Ewlng (Rev.) 127 

James — shoemaker 43 

Jane 19 

Jeremiah S 78 

John 19,122 

John (Rev.) 19,196 

Mary 78 

Samuel W 78 

Widow 26 

Wilson 191 

Black's Town 20, 25, 35, 64 

Blaine. Ephraim 196 

Blair, D. O. (Dr.) 150,154 

John 196 

Blair's Valley 61 

Blanchard. 34 

Blattenberger, Jacob 191 

Blue Dave 42 

Bohn. Lieut 159 

Border Life 5, 67 

Bossart, John W 24 

Bouch. John 123 

Bouquet, Gen 52 

Bowers, George 191 

Joseph 32 

Bowles, Angle 191 

Bowman, George 191 

J 191 

Shannon 147 

Boyd, Hance 148 

J. A 203 

J. C 31 

James 39 

James (Mrs.) 202 

John 196 

Miss 202 

Peggy 124 

207 



Boyd, R 191 

William D 7, 40 

Braddock, Gen 23 

Bradley, Armstrong (Mrs.) 125 

Anna 202 

James 140 

J. J 140 

Johnston 191 

J. 203 

Samuel 48 

S. A 140, 142, 174 

Van T 156 

William 123 

Bradner, Joseph 20 

Brady, Morris 27 

Polly 123 

Brand, Samuel 131 

Brant, George C 140 

Theodore 191 

Branthafer 191 

Breidenthal, Elizabetha 131 

Brewbaker, B. L. (Mrs.) 202 

P 191 

Brewer, Elizabeth 202 

G. W 140 

H. H. (Mrs.) 202 

Isaiah (Mrs.) 46 

J. C 140 

J. N. . . .38, 134, 140, 149, 161 

J. P. (Col.) 31 

Lewis 147 

Matilda 133 

William N 140 

Bricker, Henry 191 

Bridgeport 23, 61 

Brlggs, Mrs 45 

Brindle, John 191 

Brinkley, W. W 154, 179,191 

Brlstor. Mrs 46, 202 

Brookie, John 122 

Brooks, Arnold 46, 166, 193,201 

BenJ 201 

Sam 156,166 

Brown, Adelaide Isabel 183 

Adjutant 63 

David Paul 133 

Elizabeth 63 

Jane 45 

John 33, 191 

Isaac G. (Rev.) 

137, 145, 148, 167, 173 

Thomas 192 

William 192 

William Findlay 7 

Brownson, Agnes 63, 64 

Asa 196 

Betsy 124 

John 35, 123, 129,176 

Mrs 47, 49 

Nancy 123 

Nathan 124 

Richard (Dr.) 64,120 

R. S. . . .140, 142, 173, 175 

Robert (Dr.) 146, 191 

Sarah 30, 176 

Brubaker, Dr 37 

Ezra 36 

Isaac 32 

Mrs 47 

Peter 191 

William 42, 46 

Bruce, Bryson 191 

James, (Rev.) 

42, 126, 148, 172, 173 

Brunot, Sanson K. (Rev.) 79 

Bryson, Bruce 154 

Buchanan, Alexander 196 

Annie 80 



208 



INDEX 



Buchanan, Edward Young (Rev )_ 

James . '.H. 43. 72. 81, 200 
James (President) 

38. 41. 44. 
46, 48, 72. 79, 81, 93, 141 

Jane 38, 81 

Maria §7 

William I? 

Buckley, J. W. (Rev.) .. .138, 139.154 

Budd, Samuel (Prof.) 39. 49. 50 

Burd. John , J; 

Burke, Wilson 191 

Burgess. E 1^5 

H 1"^ 

Joseph 192 

William 192 

Susie (Aunt) 43 

Burrall. John 191 

Bush. John 191 

AlicG .......■••■•■•-••••■ ""•* 

Butler. Alexis 192 

Richard (Col.) 66 

Stephen 192 

William (Rev.) 139 

Byers. Edward 179,191 

John 191 

Bufus 191 

Samuel P 140 

Byron, H. W 47 

H. W. (Mrs.) 202 

Byron's Tannery 42 

V. B. (Mrs.) I 

W. D. & Sons 203 

Cain, Jacob 32 

Cain Took Settlement 31 

Calahan, Philip 191 

Campbell, David 123 

Dugal 27, 196 

Finwell 123 

James 22, 120.124 

Jenny 123 

John 33 

McFarland 191 

Matty 124 

Margaret 122 

Mrs 37 

Nancv 123 

Patrick 30 

Patrick (Mrs.) 124 

Robert 122,123 

Sarah 122. 124 

Samuel 32 

Solomon 192 

Thomas 123 

William 118.119 

Cane. Wm. (Lieut.) 158. 159 

Cantor. Jacob 191 

Carson. Arthur 192 

D 140. 147, 174. 191 

Eli 192 

George 124 

James 196 

James G. (Rev.) 125 

John L 140 

J. O. . .34. 41, 49. 67. 78. 
126. 140, 141, 145, 167. 173 

J. W 127. 190 

Robert 33 

Thomas Erskine 7 

Thomas 34. 37, 38 68 

Washington 174 

William 196 

Carson's Mill 35 

Casey's Knob 23,113 

Cassatt, A. J. (Mrs.) 80 

Castle, Thunder 151 

Catron, Miss 42 

Caution. John 201 

Samuel 192 

Cellars. Susanna 122 

(iemctery. Fairview. see Fairview. 

Cessna. John (Hon.) 132 

Chambers. Arthur 38 

Caleb C 31, 32 

Maxwell 124 

Chambers-store 34 

Chestnut. Benjamin 29, 35 

Churchill 22. 36, 

48, 66. 69, 118. 120, 121 
Clapsaddle, John 32 



Clapsaddle, T. R. (Mrs.) 202 

Clark. J. S 140 

Lemuel 191 

Peter 43 

Clarke. Anthony 22 

J. H. S. (Rev.) 139 

S. (Rev.) 138, 139 

Clarkson, Thomas B. (Rev.) 125 

Cline. Henry 32 

John 191 

Clingham. Geo 191 

Cochran. Hannah 122 

Cole. George 154. 191 

Coleman. Anne C 74 

Robert 74 

College Recollections 5. 132,193 

Collins, Dick 39 

Tom 201 

Comerer, J. H 203 

Conell. Benj. Davis 196 

Conn Bros 203 

Conner. William 153 

Wilson 191 

Conococheague Electric Light, 

Heat and Power Co 203 

Conococheague Settlement. 46. 60.118 

Cook. Catherine 134 

George 134 

Joseph 196 

Peter 42. 134, 135,191 

William 39 

Cooper, Jeremiah 191 

Peggy 44 

Robert 43, 44 

Sarah 44 

William 32 

Corbet. Peter 19. 20 

"Corner." The 24. 51 

Cort. Rev. C 159 

(iove Gap 51 

Cowan. Hugh 38 

Joseph 38 

Cox. John 33 

Coyle. Andrew L 38. 39. 175 

Bryan 196 

D. L 140, 154. 161. 191 

Mary L 146. 175 

Robert M 7 

Craig, E. D 202 

Pollv 123 

Samuel 32, 33 

William 35 

Craven. Eleanor 123 

Thomas 123 

Crawford. James 34. 36.119 

Creager. David 191 

CJreamer, Frank 191 

George 191 

Jerry 191 

Creigh. Ellen D 177.202 

J. B 140 

James T 140. 141 

Marv Irvine 86 

Thomas (Dr.) 

34. 41. 44. 85. 87. 121. 
127. 141. 147. 148, 154. 
161. 162, 166, 167, 173, 191 

Crilley. D. F 7 

John 44 

John D 34. 48. 140. 141 

Crilly. Theodore 179,191 

Washington 191. 192 

Cristy. John 192 

Joseph 192 

Samuel 192 

Criswell 35 

John 191 

Croghan. Mr 24 

Cromer, Michael 42. 140,142 

Samuel 42. 47, 140 

Sarah 133 

Cromwell, Samuel 191 

Crooked Creek 27 

Crossin, Thos 196 

Crouch. John 32 

Crum. Grace Ritchey 186 

Crunkleton. Wesley 192 

Cuft, Archibald 192 

David 192 

Findlay 156 

George 192 

Nathaniel 192 



Cuff. Thomas 1 92 

Culbertson. Robert 20 

Cunningham. Elizabeth 57.122 

Hugh 123 

James 123 

Joseph 32 

John 122 

Mrs 24 

Robert 122 

William 123 

Curley. Jane 139 

John 191,192 

Samuel 139 

William 34 

Curns, James 139 

Curtis, A 19X 

Curtz, Peggy 123 

Cushwa, Capt ! . 40. 78 

J. Brewer 154.191 

M. A 135 

Dahlman. Freny 131 

Hannah 131 

Isaac 131 

Jacob 131 

Johanes 131 

Dalman. Dorethea 131 

Darby. John 40 

Darks. Dennis 192 

Daub. C. E 203 

Davidson. Dr 72 

Hugh 122 

Davies. Philip 23 

Davis. Betsy 122 

David 198 

James 196 

John 192 

Major 35 

Peter 135 

Philip 35 

Davis Fort 23 

Davison. John 196 

Dean, A. T 32 

E 50 

Jean 123 

Joseph 123 

Deatrick. William (Dr.) 45 

Wilberforce 136 

Deetrick. David 32 

Demas. George 192 

Jacob 192 

Demuth. H 191 

Denny. Gov 25 

Devilbiss. Fred 32 

Diagnothian Society 

49. 99. 103. 104, 112,133 

Dick. John 41.147 

Joseph 33 

Mrs 36 

Robert 41 

William 35, 40, 49 

Dicks 3 S 

Mill 35 

Store 34 

Dickey, Andrew 123 

James 122,196 

Jean 122 

John 31, 122, 123 

Martha 123 

Mary Patterson 5 

Polly 123 

Robert 122 

Seth..7. 38. 177. 181. 184.191 

Seth (Mrs.) 202 

William 123. 196 

William (Mrs.) 123 

Dickey Farm 59 

Diffenbacher. J. F. (Rev.) 132.137 

Diftenderfer. Felix J 45. 203 

Dill. Anne 122 

Francis 122 

Dinwiddle. Anne 123 

Sally 124 

Divelbiss. Atchison 46 

David 191 

Jacob 192 

John 155 

Joseph 191 

Solomon 147. 148 

Westly 147 

Dixon. Jane Huston 7 

Doctor Spring 28. 42 

Donnyhon, John 33 



INDEX 



209 



Donothen, John • • 32 

Dorrance. William ' ir 

Dorrance house y^ 

Douijlas. James J^ 

Dow. Susanna ^" 

noyle, Cornelius JUJ 

DrowenberK. John 1^' 

Drumm. J. M. (Mrs.) 202 

Duhbs, Dr ,^ 

Duffleld. G ■; ,^- 

Jame.s 24, 191 

William ^^' !SS 

Duffy. Daniel • • • }" 

Duncan, George Hi. > J' 

Dunlap. Alex •• ^- 

Joseph ^^ 

Dunwoody. David »° 

Dunwoodie Farm TS 

Thos 190 

Du Quesne. Fort '=■5 

"Early Schoolgirls of the Cono- 

coclieague" S^ 

Earnshaw. William (Rev.) l-ss 

Eberly, Cecil J?J 

C. A If'^ 

H. N "0 

Eckert, John ^^' H J 

John fMr.s.) 202 

John L 20?, 

Ecl<man, Billy ■"^' , i, 

Charles 19] 

John 191 

Edminston. S. B 14" 

Edmoston, George 'SJ 

H 191 

Edwards. W. B. (Rev.) 139 

Kiclielberger. H. S IjO 

Eigel-Berer, Daniel 1^5 

Elder. James -.. 3- 

Josluia 19o. 19S 

Samuel 3. 

Elliott, Bfctky •.••■• 123 

David (Dr.) ...73. S5. 87,120 

Johnston 196 

Nancy 123 

Peter ^33 

roily 122 

Robert 124. 

William 31.122 

Ellis, Esther •■ « 

Nicliolas 38, 40 

Rebecca jo 

EmbiKh. Philip ,«; 

Ernst, Fredericl^ 19' 

Ernst property 4i) 

Erwin. Archibald • j^ 

Espy. Robert -12, 45 

Etter farm f j 

Etter home 46 

Etter'.s Graveyard '0 

Evans, Jeremiah J« 

Evans. Jeremiali ^1 

Eyester, Charles 35 

Rev ■ If 9 

Fairview Cemetery 4 (, "'<'." 

I''alk. Bertha 1»7 

Fallins Spring ^- 

'^""""•AnnaF;-:::::::::::;;::2 
^"It""- •••::::::::::i8.iSi 

C. Edgar 202 

Michael 45 

Wesley (Mrs.) 39 

house ■ • 45 

Farmer's Bank 38. 203 

Farvel. Mollv 40 

Fayette Street 42 

Faust, D. W. & Sons 203 

D. W. (Mrs.) 202 

J. Z. (Mrs.) 202 

Fegley, David 36 

E 1''^ 

Susan 132 

Feight, .1. il. (Rev.) 139 

Female Seminary .V ^^r 0X0 

I'-endrick, Christian F. ...42, 175,203 

C. F. (Mrs.) 202 

Philip 38. 40 

Virginia Shannon 5 

Ferguson, Rev. Robert Gracey.. 12b 



Ferguson, W. H. (Rev.) 139 

Ferrensburg, B. 191 

IMlkill, John ISfi 

i''inafrock, John L 78, SO 

J. L. (Mrs.) 202 

Flndlav. Andrew 196 

Edward 191 

Family 44, 63 

James (Mrs.) 65 

James V, 36, 63 

Jonathan 63 

John 36, 63, 65, 123, 198 

Jean 26 

Nancy 64 

Robert 63. 140. 141 

Sally 63 

Samuel 

26, 27, 36, 63, 196, 198 
William (Gov.) 

36. 63, 64. 196 

First National Bank 203 

Fisher, Charles 50 

Fitzgerald. T. C 148. 150. 165,167 

Fleming, Betsy 122 

Rebecca 123 

Samuel 122 

Flinn, James (Capt.) 58 

Fogler. Daniel 122 

Forest. Josiah (Rev.) 139 

Forster. Charles 196 

Hannah 202 

Forsythe. William 122 

IVirt T^ittleton ; 36 

Fort Loudon 25, 53 

Foster, Ann Eliza 79 

Stephen C 79 

Fouse. Mary Hause 7 

Franklin College 50 

Franklin. Judge 74 

Fredericksburg. Battle of 178 

French. Agnes 122 

Freshholtz. Annie 203 

Conrad 38 

Fritz, Levi 154,191 

Fulton, Joseph 191 

Ruth 121 

Furlev. John 33 

Gaff, " 43 

liconard 3.i 

Galbreath, Rhoda 122 

Robert 122 

Gait. L. H. (Mrs.) 7 

Oanoe. W. V. (Rev.) 139 

Gans. Samuel 191 

Gardner. James 20 

Garner, Henry 33 

B 191 

James 33 

Prof 50 

.Joseph 33 

Peter 32 

Gates. Cornelius 132 

Gearhart, C 19] 

David 191 

Gellatlv, Alexander 1 2.''i 

Gerhart, Emanuel Vogel (Dr.)... 102 

Kniil V. (Prof.) 9X 

Isaac (Rev.) 102 

Sarah 102 

Samuel 196 

Frederick 39 

Jacob 41 

John (Capt.) 43. 44 

John F. 139.140 

Miss 4 4 

Smith 44.139 

Gift John • • ]85 

Gilbert, A. F ^"^ !i? 

George 191 

Gilchrist. Anne ] ^^ 

Polly 123 

Gillan. W. Rush (Judge) <8 

Gillespie. Charles 37 

Glllespy. William 196 

Gilliland. Philip 19« 

Gish's Mill „36 

Gish. H. L 203 

Glass. William ^» 

Glaze. John 33 

Glee. George l»l 

Gluck, W. E 203 

Goethean Hall.. 48, 49, 97, 99, 103,133 



Garret, 
Garver, 
Garvcr. 
Garvin. 
Gaster. 



Gettys. 
Geyer, 



Goheen, W. (Rev.) 139 

Golls 35 

Good, J. A 140 

Jonathan 44. 134. 191 

John 192 

M rs 4 4 

Margaret 44 

W. A. (Rev.) 103. 132 

Goodrich. Louisa 109 

Goolick. John D. (Judge) 62 

Gordon. Isabella 61 

Gorman, James 191 

Graham. Jean 124 

John 191 

Grant. Capt 63 

Graul, Levina 139 

Grawi 43 

Great Cove 22,23. 53 

Great Road 42. 45 

Greeber. Henry 191 

Green. J 191 

J. M. (Rev.) 139 

Traill (Dr.) 94,132 

Traill (Mrs.) 50 

Grler. Michael 191 

Grifflth. T. M. (Rev.) 139 

Groscope. Jacob 32 

Grosh, D. B. (Dr.) 38, 45. 191, 203 

Grove, Charles 40 

George 39 

James 150 

John 40, 140 

J. L. (Rev.) 127 

Maggie 150 

T. C 147, 150, 161 

W. C. (Mrs.) 202 

W. G 203 

Grubb, James 42 

Joseph 128 

Thomas 33, 34. 42 

Gurley. G. D. ( Rev. ) 128 

Guthrie. William 40 

Guyer. Jacob 128. 129 

Hadderman. M 191 

Hager, Hannah 122 

Hair, John 124 

Hall, Eleanor 124 

George 192 

1 lalland. James 32 

Hallin, John 32 

Hamil. E. B 140 

Hamilton, BenJ 36 

Capt 24 

Hance 23 

James 19, 33 

Jeremiah 124 

John 196 

Hammil, A 191 

Hancock, Joseph 123 

W. S. (Gen.) 190 

W. S. (Mrs.) 190 

Harbaugh, Anna 108 

George 108 

Henry Lange 109, 136 

Henry (Dr.) 

45. 50. 104. 
108. 115. 133. 138, 162 

John A 109 

Linn ...109, 110, 102. 195 

Margaret A 109 

Mary Louisa 109 

Mary 109 

Wilson L 7. 109 

Family, Annals of... 109 

Harfe 109 

Home 47 

Hargleroad, Farm 56 

Harmcs, J. E. (Mrs.) 202 

Harrer. John 33 

Harrington, Jo.seph 33 

Harris. BenJ 192 

John 32 

Mrs 48 

Rowland 124 

Harrl.son. Elizabeth Irwin 84 

Isaac 192 

James 33 

Jane Irwin 84 

John Scott 84 

W. H. (Gen.) 84 

W. H. (Pres.).. .40, 65, 84 
Hart. Daniel 5, 37,147 



210 



INDEX 



Hart. Ellen 133 

Fanny 124 

Henry 39 

James L HO 

John 32. 39. 123, 138,139 

William 33.196 

Hartman. D. (Rev.) 139, 140.141 

Harvey. John 192 

Hassler. Annie 133 

Jacob (Rev.) 36 

Jacob 41. 42. 4S, 49 

Hastier. John 32 

Hastings. Thomas S 98 

Haulman, Christian 42,129 

Hause, Harmon ..39, 47. 134, 136,148 

Sarah 133 

Hay den, William 147 

Hays, David 123, 145 

Jenny 124 

M 147 

Nancv 123 

Patrick (Capt.) 32, 124 

William 196 

Hazelbarth, A. L. (Mrs.) 202 

Hege, Samuel 35 

Hege and Myers 203 

Helm, Janet 123 

John 123 

Hcnkle. George 

Herkman, Andreas 131 

Herod, James 31, 196 

Herrington 32 

Hevd, Rev 148 

Heyser, Jacob (Elder) 113 

Hiester. Joseph (Gen.) 64 

Hiestf-rs Mill 84 

Higbee, E. E. (Dr.) ..45, 50. 104, 

112, 113, 115, 116, 133 

L. M. (Mrs.) 7 

Leins 115 

Highland, Mrs 43 

Hill, Hardy 196 

Hisson. Barbara 131 

Hissong. Jonas 32 

"History of Franklin and Mar- 
shall College" 5 

Hoagland. John 41 

Hoch, Charlotte 139 

John 40. 42, 46, 81, 

139, 148 

John N 203 

Michael 124 

William E 139 

Hodskins, Abraham 32 

Jacob 32 

Hoeflich, 45 

Hoerner, William 25 

Mrs 40 

Hoffeditz, Albert 203 

John 133 

Louisa (Mrs.) 41 

Theodore L. (Rev.)... 96 

Hogg. John 122 

Hoke. Adam 42. 132, 142, 145, 160 

Ann 132 

Michael 42. 128, 129 

Holiday, James 123 

Samuel 123 

William 122 

Holland, H. (Rev.) 139 

Hollar. Jacob 46 

Holliday. John 119. 122 

Hollinger's Mill 35 

Holman. John 166 

Holman's 3S 

Holstone. William ...'. 191 

Hooper, Kate 45 

Hoops, Adam 23 

Hoover and Cump 203 

Hopkins, J. H. (Rev.) 79 

Hornbraker, Henry C....156. 176,192 

John 191 

Samuel 
„ ^ 140, 146, 173, 176, 191 

Horton, Thomas 43 

Hosier. Jacob 132' 134 

Hospelhorn, Henry 43 

William 191 

Hossler. Widow 134 

Houck, Christian .'. 191 

Henrv ' 20 

Houston, William '. 33 



Hughs, John 192 

Hummell)augh, Howard (Mrs.).. 39 

Humphreys, David 45 

John 41 

Hunter, Arthur 123 

John 122 

Robert 122 

Huston. Cephas B 32, 38,140 

David 196, 198 

James 28 

Joseph 20 

William ....31. 122, 123,196 

Hyssong, John 14O 

John A 146, 147, 151 

Imbrie, A 140, 142 

Imes, Henry 192 

Immais. James 123 

Irvine, William (Col.) 64 

W. M. (Dr.) 45, 203 

W. M. (Mrs.) 202 

Irwin. Archibald 29. 

40, 41, 63, 84, 119, 196, 197 

Betsy 123 

Elizabeth 84, 122 

Francis 124 

James 51, 122, 131,196 

Jane 40, 66, 84 

Jean 123 

Jean McDowell 84 

Jenny 123 

Joseph 122 

Martha 122,198 

Martilla 123 

Nancy 63. 123 

Polly 122, 123, 12 I 

Sarah 28 

Thomas 123 

I'"" ins 22, 35, 64 

Irwm s Mill 63, 84 

Izer, Ezra 191 

G. W. (Rev.) :.■...; 139 

Jackson. President 63, 74 

James. Jesse 196 

Meseck "3 

January. Peter 196 

Johnson, Davy 43 

Reuben 192 

William (Sir) 63 

Johnston. Adam 123 

Alexander 125 

Betsv 124 

Dr 196 

Henry Elliott 83 

James 28, 125, 197 

John 19, 27, 29. 

32, 119, 123, 125, 140 

Joseph 123 

Huston 7 

Mary 202 

Samuel . . . 33, 35. 47, 67, 125 
., „ ^ Thomas ..33. 125, 140, 196 

Jolly. Benj 195 

Jordan, Jenny .'.'!.'.'! 202 

Mary ...!!!. 202 

Journal of American History.... 5 

Kalm. Jacob 131 

Kamel. Anamaria 131 

Kaufman. Benj ] " ' ' ss 

Keefer. W. W ' 140 

Keepers. J. A . "03 

Keith. Thomas 192 

William ' ' 192 

Keller, D. M. (Mrs.) .' " ' 202 

Henry 43 

Kellers 35 

Kemble, A. A '. 50 

Kendall, John 196 

William 41 

Kenedy. Thomas 196 

Kerr, Isabel ' 122 

John ....'. 122 

Martha 123 

Mary 122 

William 122 

Kershner, Jacob 196 

Jacob (Prof.)45, 50, i04, 112 

Joseph (Prof.) 50 

Keyser s 39 

Keyser, Charles ..'.'' 160 

.^ L. K .;: 140 

Key. Francis Scott 70 

Kidd, Benj igg 



Kieffer. Ab 134 

H. L. G. (Mrs.) '.'..'.'. 202 

J. Spangler (Dr.) . . . . 114, 147 

Moses (Dr.) 102 

Pro'essor 50.112,113 

Kilgore, C 201 

King, Dr 41, 37 

John 30, 32, 33, 139,191 

John ( Daddy) 38 

John (Dr.) 41, 48, 67. 168 

John (Rev.) 

24. 31. 69, 72, 119, 196, 19S 

J. S 140, 143, 146 

Robert 41 44 

Kirby, George 40 

Kirkpatrick, Benj 20. 28 

.lames 41 

Jean 124 

John 123 

KJrwood. Maria 36 136 

Kittoehtinny Valley 25, 48 

Klee, John 39 

Kooken, John (Rev.) 50,103 

J. R. (Rev.) Ill 

Knox, Abner 124 

Thomas ...'. 124 

Krebs. H. B 203 

H. B. (Mrs.) 202 

Kremer, Abner R 93 

Amos H 102 

J. Brainard (Mrs.) .... 99 

Kreps, Jacob 37, 152 

J. H 203 

John B 38 

Michael 43,191 

Kroh. Daniel 103 

Krummacher. Fred W. (Dr.) 96 

Kugel, Adam 131 

Anamaria 131 

Kuhn, CapI.Tin 185 

Jolin M. (Dr.) 40. 203 

Xoah 191 

Kunkleman 129 

Kyle. Robert 31.122 

Thomas 122 

William 122 

Kyler. Peter 32 

Lachove. Leonard 42. 47 

Ladebaugh, Sarah F 133 

La Fayette. General 66 

La Fayette Street 42 

Lamaster and Keller 203 

Lane, E. T "OO 

Elliott 35, 38, 41, 48, 81 

George 192 

Harriet Rebecca 38, 46, 77, 81 

Mary gi 

Store 34 

Thomas 35, 38, 41 

Lang. John 123 

Latta. Moses 196 

Lauderbaugh, A. B 7, 19, 147 

Cornelius 139 

Henry 147 

Miss 202 

Law, James D 62 

Lawson, Anthony 196 

Leber, William 140 

Leer, Daniel 32 

Leidy, Barbara '. 131 

Johanes 131 

Mary S 139 

Leonard 47, 138, 139,140 

Simeon 131 

Leimeister, Anamaria 131 

Elizabetha 131 

Jacob 131 

Leinbach, C. H 103 

Lemison. Rachel 45 

Lemmon, Martha 123 

Lenherr, H. L 203 

Lesher, Miss 47 

Thomas ! 191 

Libby Prison 151,171 

Licking Creek 27 

Liddy. John 33 

Lightner, Ilenrv 142 

John 43, 191 

Lind.-iay, Margaret 183 

Lineaweaver. S. T. (Dr.) 109 

Lininger, D. J 203 

Mrs 45 



INDEX 



211 



Linn, John 198 

Mary Louisa 109 

Linton. Eliza 42 

Lipscomb, J. D. (Rev.) 139 

Little, B. K 140 

p. W 34, 49 

R. P. (Dr.) 45, 175 

Locust Corner 38 

Locust Grove School 50 

Logran, Alexander 160 

Long. David 122 

and Grove 203 

Dr 41 

.James (Rev.) 196 

Sarah Maude 139. 202 

William 46 

W. C. (Mrs.) 202, 203 

Longstreatch. Bartholomew 196 

Loose, .Joseph (Rev.) 50 

P. R. (Rev.) 129 

Louderbaugh, Cornelius. 

43, 45, 140. 150, 153 
Loudon. Fort, see Kort Loudon. 

Loudon's Narratives 67 

Lowe, Charles C 3S 

Lowry, Jean 123 

Joseph 123 

Peggy 123 

Rebecca 122 

Polly 123 

Robert 123 

Violet 124 

Lucas, Patrlclc 124 

Peggy 123 

Thomas 122 

Lutheran Church ..42, 46, 48, 128,136 

Lyceum. Mercersburg 140 

Mackey, Stephen 197 

Madden, Mrs 41 

Magaw, Jesse (Dr.) 4S, 67, 72 

Magaw Tract 45 

Magaw, William (Dr.) 28, 29. 

40. 42, 66, 123, 135, 200 

Mahaffy. scout 5S 

Mann. William Julius 95 

Mansion Hotel 37 

Mansion House ...38. 49, 78, 194,203 

Maris, Margaret 71 

Matthias 71 

Markle, Samuel 33 

Marris. Mrs 41 

Marshall, John 49 

Marshall College 34, 

3S. 39, 40, 45, 48, 49, 89, 90, 
99. 102, 105, 111, 115. 132, 134,193 
Marshall Collegiate Institute ... 50 

Marshall, John (Capt.) 31 

John 123 

Martha 122 

William 23. 123 

Wm. (Capt.) 196 

Martin, G. H. (Dr.) 102,103 

J. O. (Mrs.) 202 

John 56 

Robert 124 

Mrs 35 

Nath 196 

William (Mrs.) 122 

Samuel A. (Dr.) 94 

Samuel 3f 

Tobias 42 

Maurerer. Susanna 131 

Matthews. Ezekiel 122 

Maxwell, Alexander 123 

Betsy 24 

James 120.196 

John 33, 197 

Nancy 124 

Rachel 124 

Wm. (Major) 22, 24 

Maxwell's Mill 24 

Susanna 124 

Thomas 122 

William 51, 118, 119 

May, scout 58 

Mayer, Jacob (Rev.) 48, 132,137 

Lewis (Dr.) 103 

McAfee, James 36, 37 

John 123 

Hotel 34, 78 

Mark 132 

Margaret 123 



McAllan. George 45,131 

McAllister, Adam 33. 45 

Andy 145.191 

McCall, John 123 

McCammis, Thos 20 

McCauley, Charles (Rev.) 

133, 134, 137 

Jenny 12 1 

McCausIand, Eleanor 123 

Thomas 67 

William 123 

McCay, Betsy 124 

Isabella 124 

James 122, 124 

John 124 

Stephen 197 

William 123 

McCIarin. John 123 

McClav. William 33 

McClcan. Robert 122 

McCleary. Daniel (Mrs.) 45 

George 44. 147 

McClellan. Adam 191 

Hayes 47. 191 

James 20, 198 

Mrs 39 

Robert 20. 58, 59, 191 

William 19! 

McClelland. Adam 154. 191 

H. C 7 

Jenny 123 

John 33, 119, 120, 155, 196 

Mary 123 

Mattv 124 

Ruth 124 

Prudence 124 

William 

120, 122, 124, 191. 196 

W. Hays 154, 191 

McClure. John 122 

McCollister, Sarah 123 

McCoIlough. J. A 154 

McCIonnell. Adam 196 

G. H 140 

G 191 

Hugh . .39, 43, 45, 138. 140 

James 154, 191 

Jean 122 

Mr 48. 72 

Wm 196 

McCord's Fort 24 

McCormack. John 191 

McCoy, Daniel 21 

James 122 

Robert 31, 33, 40 

McCracken, Catherine 122 

James 122 

John 196 

Mary A 139 

Sallie 46 

Sarah 139 

McCullough, Arch 191 

George 200 

Hance 122 

James 56,196 

Jas. J 148 

James P. 

176, 184. 185, 191 
James P. Post 

(Capt.) 174,203 

John 

33, 55. 56, 57, 119,122 

Joseph 124 

Mary 122 

Matty 124 

Thomas 192 

McCune, Brewer 44 

Billy 40 

D 203 

J. 160 

James 39 

Jacob 40, 4 4 

Mrs 45 

John S 140, 147, 191 

Samuel 196 

William P 148, 191 

W. B 191 

McCurdy. John 33 

William 32 

McCurdy's Hole 113 

McCutcheon. Robert 191 

McDonald, David, 5, 132, 140, 154, 191 



McDonald, Ella 202 

George 191 

Hannah 202 

James (Capt.) 42 

McDonough. Haney 40 

McDowell, Alexander 122,123 

Anabella 122 

Andrew 123 

A 191 

Elizabeth 120 

Fort 25. 61, 69 

James .27, 32, 33, 124,196 

Jane 124 

Jane Bard 63 

Jenny 123 

John (Dr.) 34, 40, 119, 135 
John .. .122, 123, 150, 196 

John M 71 

Margaret 122 

Mary 42, 146 

Mill 20, 23, 51 

Miss 202 

Nancy 123 

Nathan 122, 123 

Patrick 124 

Peggy 123 

Polly 122 

Robert 123. 124 

Sally 124 

Susanna 122 

Thomas 31, 33, 124 

William 20, 31. 

33, 69. 119, 154. 191 

William B 69 

William F 7, 203 

McElhattan, Alexander 123 

Archibald 122 

Catherine 122 

Mary 122 

Samuel 122 

McEnally. Peter (Rev.) 139 

McFall. Malcolm 196 

McFarland, Anne 124 

Delight 105 

Eliza 139 

Franklin 106 

James 31, 124 

John ...38, 105, 124, 191 

Mrs 166 

Polly 124 

Robert 31, 32. 

105, 119, 123, 124, 196 
R. Parker . .105. 140, 155 

Thomas Bard 105 

T. Frank 7 

William 123 

McFarlln, Lettue 122 

William 122 

McFerren, George 33 

Jacob 37 

Samuel 122, 191 

Thos. (Rev.) 196 

McGIaughlin, D 191 

N 191 

McGovern, E 34 

E. G. (Dr.) 37. 200 

McHenry, S. (Rev.) 129 

McKee. Alex ] 22 

McKinlcy, James 196,198 

John 123 

McKlnney. Alex'r 21 

Anne ]23 

Joslah . .120. 122, 123, 196 

James 123 

John 124 

Mary 57 

Peggy 123 

Polly 123.124 

Walter 31,122 

McKinnie, Isabel 122 

McKinnon. Lachlan 21 

McKinstry, Alex 33 

A. E 140 

C. R. (Mrs.) 202 

James 147 

Mary 7 

Miss 202 

Reminiscences 42 

Squire 44, 45 

William . .33. 34, 39, 

40, 41, 44, 49, 67,140 
W. D. 6, 140, 147. 160, 191 



212 



INDEX 



McKinstry, W. E 154,172 

McKonchy 33 

McLaughlin, C. W 78, 203 

D 101 

McLucas, Wm 191 

McMullen, Catherine 122 

Isabel 122 

McMuIlin, John 119 

Margaret 122 

McMurdie, James 37 

McNaughton, Ellen J 160 

Finley White 

(Uev.) 125 

McNeal, Augustus 33 

James 33 

McNutt, Sally 123 

McPherran Farm 23 

McPike, Charles 32 

McQuown, James 32 

Robert 32 

William 32 

Means, John 123 

Nancy 123 

Mercer House 34, 41, 78,203 

Hugh ...22, 24, 29, 60, 61, 67 

William 60 

Mercersburg Academy ....45. 83.203 
Collegiate Institute 50 

College 50, 111. 115 

Planned 29 

Incorporated 34 

"in War Times" . . 145 

"Journal" 34, 203 

Lyceum 140 

Review 

50, 9S, 102, 104, 112 

Savings Fund 38 

Theology 

50, 92, 98, 104, 113 

Merckel, Cathariiia 131 

Metcalfe Bros 203 

Martha 133 

D. F 39 

D. F. (Mrs.) 202 

Sally 43 

Thomas 140, 154, 191 

William .38, 42, 49, 51,140 
Methodist Episcopal Church 

43, 44, 45, 46, 48, 50, 138, 160, 167 

Methodist Graveyard 45. 47 

Miclielmar, Morris 27 

Mifllin, Thos 29 

Miller, C 191 

David 191 

David (Mrs.) 40, 46 

Daniel (Dr.) 102 

Emma Matilda Ill 

J. E. (Mrs.) 202 

J. H 203 

J. H. (Mrs.) 202 

J. N 38 

scout 58 

S. S 133 

Milligan, Belle 39 

Jane 39 

Millmont 132 

Mills, F. M. (Rev.) 139 

N. B. (Rev.) 138, 139 

R. W. (Rev.) 139 

Minnich, P. W 140 

Minshall, Robert (Rev.) 139 

Mitchell. Joseph 31 

Moner, William 123 

Montgomery, Campbell 32 

Jaines 33 

named 34 

Moore, David 196, 198 

E 28 

Philip 122 

Morris, R. H. (Hon.) 23 

Governor 23, 24 

Morrison, James 31 

Mortimer, John 196 

Morton, Thomas 40 

Moses, Old 113 

Mosser, B. H. (Rev.) 139 

George 191 

farm 57 

Moss Hills 140 

Mount Parnell 24 

Mowen, Dallas E 154,191 

Mary 133 



Mowery, George 156 

Jacob 191 

John 32, 192 

Mary 134 

Mull, George F 117 

John ; ^32, 33 

Prof 50 

Munroe, Anne 60 

Murphy, Alex 191 

Catherine 133 

Col. 

38, 49, 145, 148, 173, 193 

Cyrus 147 

James 196 

John H 41, 45, 134 

Martin 133 

William 134, 191 

Murray, E ] 91 

Mrs 39 

Harriet 202 

M it|i 

0. L 147, 148 

Myers, Andrew 44 45 191 193 

D. L o|,3 

Edward B 203 

George 44, igi 

Jacob 191 

John 39 

Lightner 191 

Martin (Mrs.) 202 

Myres, Agnes 122 

National Bank 40, 203 

Neely, Joseph 122 

Negley, E 31, 140,148 

,, ^. Dr 39, 40, 169 

Nesbitt, Betsy 124 

Thomas ' 12 4 

,, . Polly 124 

Nevin, Alhin M 99 

Alice , 7 

B. E. (Mrs.) 202 

Blanche 101, 133 

John 91, 99 

John W. (Dr.)39, 77, 89, 90, 

96, 103, 112, 113, 134, 141 

Martha 99, 133 

William M. (Prof.) 
,,, , 45, 99, 133. 134 

Newberry, Andrew 122 

Newell, Robert 122,196 

Nichols, Henry M 201 

Nicholson's Gap ' 51 

North, A. J 3S 140 

Ma.1or 35] 161 

Cottage 45 

Miss 202 

Nell . . . . 202 

S. W. (Mrs.) 202 

Oats, John 122 

Offit, George 192 

Michael 192 

Old Stone Academy 48 

Ormsby, Martha 124 

Orth, Adam 147 

John 7, 41, 47, 19) 

Ott, D. W 203 

D. W. (Mrs.) 202 

Oyler. Henry 191 

Palmer, G 191 

Palsgrove 40 

Palsgrove, Samuel 41 

Parker, Eliza 105 

James 192 

Miss 202 

James 154 

Oliver 45, 191 

Robert 

38, 39, 45, 46, 66, 106, 140 

Thompson 45, 191 

W. D 140 

Parkhill, Jean 123 

Parnell's Knob 69, 113 

Path Valley 22, 23 

Patterson, Anna 7 

Capt 24 

Ellen 7 

Francis 196 

.Tames 22 

J. W 140 

Joshua 22 

Miss 202 

Samuel 191 



Patterson, William 35 

Patterson's Run 97 

Patton, Betsy ,.',', 123 

James 31, 3s','i9i, 196 

Matthew 23, 25, 32, 33 

P^f.sy 124 

Polly , 124 

Samuel 31, 69 

Patton store '4 

Paxton, Thomas .....'. 200 

Penn, John '_]' ' 20 

Thomas 20 

Pensingcr, Thomas '. " " 191 

W "'191 

Peters, Richard 19,' 20, 34 

Peters Township named 34 

Pettet, Charles 39 

PhiUlps, Caleb (Mrs.) '..'. 202 

D. Caleb 203 

Edward H 7 

Evan 19C, 200 

Joseph 42 

J- A 203 

J. A. (Mrs.) 202 

D. •,,■ William (Rev.) 134.137 

Phillips, Catharin 199 2OU 

PhiUops. Joshua 199,200 

Pike, Charles 33 

Pimm, William '.'.[ 122 

Pine, William ' ' 191 

Pittman, John ,' ' igi 

T5 « V, William ;]!i56, 160 

Pofflnberger. Jacob 35 

Pollens. Henrv 53 

Porter, Polly ; ; ; 123 

Thomas Conrad (Dr.). 43, 94 

General 66 

Potter, Henry '. 191 

Jacob !!!!.'!!! 147 

John . . . 2.3 

Zachary 191 

"Preparatory" 39 

Presbyterian Church '.Vi' 

45, 48. 50, 85, 94, 118 

Mite Society 7 

^ Graveyard 4 4 

Proudfeit, John 191 

Raby, William 156 154 

Race, The 47 

Rag-g, Janet Hause ' . ' ' 7 

Rahauser, Jonathan (Rev.) . .131, 137 

Ramsey, Betsy (Aunt) 43, 44 

Jim (Uncle) 43, 44 

James (Maj.) 84,196 

Mary 84 

Nancy 84 

Rankin, David 31 

James 20, 31, 196 

J. C. (Mrs.) 7, 39, 202 

Jeremiah 31,196 

Johnson (Mrs.) 50 

Johnston 127 

Watson 191 

William 22, 31, 33,122 

Rannells. Pollv 124 

Sally ; 124 

Susanna 121 

Ranch, F. A. (Dr.) 

40, 49, 50, 89. 90, 102 

„ , Dr 50 

Read, .Tames 122 

Joseph 122 

Rearick, J. McN. (Mrs.) 7 

Rebaugh, John (Rev.) .. .132, 134,137 

Reed, Charles 191 

Thomas 43 

Reese, .Jeremiah 191 

W. W. (Rev.) 139 

Reformed Church 

40, 42, 45, 48, 50, 
91, 94, 128, 131, 160, 171 
Church Messenger . . . 102 

Reisner, Jacob 42. 47 

Reitzel, George 43! 191 

,.„ . .S , 191 

Reminiscences 5, 42 

Reninger, Joseph 134 

Resser and Roberts 41 

Rendenaiier, Martin 131 

Susanna 131 

Rexroth, Augustus 40 

Reynolds, Misses 41 



INDEX 



213 



Reynolds, Sally 124 

Thomas 3S, 4V 

William 119 

rjioa, Agnes 202 

Bessie 202 

John 37 

.T. T. (Mrs.) 202 

Margery 12:! 

S. McClean 7, 39 

Rhodes. Jacob 156,192 

John 161, 191 

Rice, Mrs 41 

P. A 140. 142, 

150, 154. 163. 171, 172. 192 

Perry 3S 

Perry (Mrs.) 41 

Sara Findlay 65 

Richard. J. F'raise 143 

Rickabaugh, J. L 2S 

Ridenhour, Wm 191,192 

Ridgelv, Charles Sterrett (Maj.) 73 

Ridout, James 192 

Hinkard, Mrs 40 

Ring, Nancy 44 

Ripple, Josiah 191 

Joseph 154 

Ritchcy, Adelaide 186 

Atciiison 

42, 126, 166, 161, 1S3 

Col 41,120 

Elizabeth 1S3 

Grace 186 

Jane 1S3 

Hamilton 183 

John A 186 

John 37,126 

John L. (Col.) 183,191 

Lindsay 186 

Misses 39 

McKibbin 186 

Margaret 183 

Martha 186 

Michael 186 

Richard D 7. 186 

Samuel 183 

Sarah 183 

William 183 

W. Lindsay 7 

John 183 

Ritner. Joseph (Gov.) 49 

Rittcr, Martin 43,135 

Rit-ell, S. M 140 

RobiMson, T. H. D. D 87 

AlPxandcr 123 

William 26, 28, 196, 198 

Robston, David 33 

Rockwell, Bishop 43 

Mrs 43 

G. W 203 

Rodgers Kngraving Co 5 

Rodgers, John 191 

Rooney, Peter 190 

Rose, James Gray (Dr.) 107 

J. G. (Mrs.) 202 

Ross, Adam 191 

B. W 171 

Roth, George 147 

G. (Rev.) 129 

Rothrauf, David 191 

Royer, Daniel 196 

J. V. (Mrs.) 202 

"Run," The 25, 42 

Rupley, G. G. 39. 40, 42, 134, 140, 
145, 146, 147, 148, 
150, 153, 154, 171, 172. 192 

Gilbert 45. 133 

Margaret 202 

Nancy Belle 5. 7.202 

S. G. (see Gilbert) 203 

S. G. (Mrs.) 202 

Ruffs "History" 22. 54 

Ruthrauff. John (Rev.) 128.129 

Rutledge. A. H. (Mrs.) 202 

.Sacks. John 179 

St. Andrew's Society 62 

St. Clair. John 191 

Martin 191 

Mrs 44 

Thomas 191 

Thompson 191 

Saint John's College 69 

Saint Thomas 24 



Saweekly Town 27 

• Schaeffer 158 

Schaefter. Nathan G 112 

Schafer, George 131 

Johanes 131 

Paul 131 

Schaff, Anna 96 

Anselm 96, 133 

David Schley ...7, 96, 98,163 

John 96, 98 

Mary 96 

Meta 96, 98 

Philip (Ur 45, 

92, 95, 102, 109, 115, 
134, 145, 148, 163, 172. 173 

Philip 96 

Willie 96 

Schercr. Fredericka 131 

Jonathan 131 

Margretha 131 

Peter 131 

Scliick, John 136 

Schiedt, R. C. (Prof.) 90 

Schley, John Thomas 97 

Mary Elizabeth 96 

Schlosser. N. (Rev.) 139 

Schnebly, Andrew R. 7, 41, 44, 132, 187 

Schnebley, A. R. (Mrs.) 202 

Henry (Dr.) 196 

Schneck. Benj. S. (Dr.) 96 

Schort. Jacob 131 

Scrivei-. John D 140 

Schocnberger, John 38 

SchoU. Rev 132,137 

Schwab, Gustav 95 

Scott. Beckv 123 

Dr 40, 41 

George 191 

James 196 

James P 34 

James P. (Dr.) 200 

Jenny 123 

Jean 122 

John 123 

Margaret 41 

Mary 123 

Polly 123 

Thos. A 38, 186, 193 

William 123 

Scull. Nicholas 19 

Scully, David 154, 191 

Henry 47 

Harriet 47 

Seceder Church 46, 47, 48, 125 

Seibert, 44 

Dr 167 

Luther 191 

Seitzinger, John 38, 39 

Sellers, Alexander 41 

Michael 38, 132 

William 141 

W. W 140 

Sclsor, Charles 1 203 

Charles I. (Mrs.) 202 

William 191 

William (Mrs.) 202 

Seminary. .. .45, 50. 96, 102, 108, 160 

Scmple, Robert 196 

Scyler, John 47 

Joseph 148 

Shade Creek 27 

Shaoffer, Peter 134 

Shaffer, Daniel, 38, 43, 48, 148, 150 

153, 171. 192 

Jacob 40 

John 140 

John S 203 

M, C 203 

M. C. (Mrs.) 202 

Robert 140, 147 

W'ade 45 

W. E 203 

W. H 140 

Shannon. D. M. B.. 34, 40, 133, 140 

165, 167 

Hugh 122 

James 122 

Jean 122 

Joseph 38, 122 

K. Antoinette 7, 137 

Mr 40 

Nathaniel 31 



Shannon, Oliver E. . 

Patent '..'.'.'.'.'.'.'. 

Robert . 

William. 20, 28, 31,' Vo, 

bharar, David 

Jacob ! ! ! ! ! 

John 

Peter 

Sharon, James K. (Rev.). ... Vs 

Sharp, Stuart 

Shatzer, E .....!!!! 

John Sv .'. -14 

John K 145, 173) 

Shearer, Ti'm'o'thv ".'.'.'.'.'. 

Sheilds. James 

Shelby. John 

Shepler, George 

Shields, Daniel 

Matthew ." ; 

Shiftensburg 

Shirk, Jennie Cromer 

Shirts 

Shirts, John 41, 140,' i-is,' isi'Vee 

Shirtz. Robert 147 

Shorts, Harry ! 19l' 

Shrader, Catherine .... 

a., ., John 33,"4V, 

Shultz, Rev 

Shunk. Francis Raun (Gov) "' 

Sideling Hill 24 

"Sideling Hill "Volunteers"..'...' 

Sillick. Geo 

Simms. Betsy .!!!!. 

Simpson, ifary ....!!!! i i i 

Mrs 

Richard 11 '. 

Skiles. James 

Skinner, Capt .....' 

Enoch '. 

Tiiiie ;;;; 

Slick, M. j; .:::::::;::::45;'i'8'7: 

Sloan, Samuel 

Thomas 

Slyder, Tom 

Small, Edward '.'.'.'.'.'. 

Jacob !!!]'* 

John 

J. L ■;; ; ; ■ ■ 

Rebecca 

Robert ' ' ' '43' 

Smiley. James .....' 

Smith, Abraliam, 27, 29 64 196 

Bros '. . . . ' 

David ,' ', 

Esther 

Findlay 

Frederick 

F. B 

Grizel '.'.'.'.'.'.'.'. 

Harry 

James ' ■2'o', 

James (Col.) 20, 21, 31, 

J. H. S '-"■ 

J. M ; . ; 

.lane 97. 

.Tanet ".'.'."', .' 

Jenny !!!!!! 

John ; ■ 

Jonathan 27. 31, 

Josiah 

Justice ' 

Lizzie 

Margaret .29 

Mary 20, 26, 27! 

Matthew 38, 140 

Peggy 

Polly 122, 

Rebecca 27 

Robert, 26. 27, 28, 29, '35', 
37, 45, 65. 120. 

r, „ J9«. 197, 

Sally 29, 30, 

Sarah 28. 65, 

Thomas 

William, 20, 26, 27 28 
29, 30, 31, 33, 35; 
36, 37. 42. 47, 51, 
63, 119, 123, 176, 
62, 63, 119, 123, 



7 

20 

122 

122 

191 

191 

140 

128 

72 

40 

191 

191 

191 

191 

196 

33 

196 

42 

22 

22 

23 

7 

38 

189 

191 

192 

139 

191 

129 

64 

6.^ 

21 

191 

123 

123 

44 

7 

35 

47 

35 

139 

191 

191 

196 

41 

192 

191 

32 

S2 

140 

43 

191 

123 

197 

203 

135 

123 

191 

44 

203 

29 

139 

123 

54 
140 
203 

64 

20 
123 

49 
119 
123 

54 
146 

37 

29 
150 
122 
123 
122 



199 

42 
175 



tl 



